July 4th 2007 Independence Day

Tough Love

Nellieyah — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 22:02:50 EST

Loving politics has never been easy.

And at first, I wasn’t sure it was love.

But, letting the Bush years ruin everything would be too crazy.

And I heard a call to action from high above.

Though I can’t stand the hidden “isms” in the news.

Or the war and fear mongering from the right.

I aint no punk when it comes to getting my dues.

And I damn sure aint going down without a fight.

Still, what really gets me is liberals losing hope.

Or, progressives going after each other.

‘Cause I’m hooked on this movement for change like dope.

Now politics is like my difficult lover.

I love the times when we share big success.

I love knowing that I helped make things better.

I love inspiring the down-trodden, and all the rest.

I love my creative writing like a love letter.

MFs Think I'm Playin'

Nellieyah — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 23:21:47 EST

I just found an article (below) on the Huffington Post that I believe was plagerized from my blog about universal healthcare, a play in 3 acts. This isn't the first time that my superb creative talents have been STOLEN from, but seeing how I'M NOT GETTING PAID and this is like the gazillionth time this has happened, I'm done playing games. Glenn Greenwald (and all these haters) better recognize! They'll understand what I mean in due time... This is a promise, not a threat.

Glenn Greenwald Writes a One-Act Play about How the White House Works By Jason Linkins

Yesterday, we took up the issue of whether or not President Barack Obama could have done more to pressure Congress to craft a more effective health care reform bill than the one currently slouching out of the Senate towards an uneasy mating ceremony with the House bill in conference committee. Assuming it even gets there! Maybe the only thing Harry Reid can ultimately get 60 votes for is a "Get well soon" card from Hadassah Lieberman -- who knows?Glenn Greenwald took up the matter as well, armed with the same checklist of tactics from Adam Green. Greenwald went on to conclude that, "contrary to Obama's occasional public statements in support of a public option, the White House clearly intended from the start that the final health care reform bill would contain no such provision and was actively and privately participating in efforts to shape a final bill without it." It's a compelling argument and the key piece of supporting evidence is the deal the White House negotiated in private with the pharmaceutical industry. Greenwald also argues, at length, against the notion that the entirety of the failure to reform health care can be laid at the feet of Congressional intransigence. I'd say that Greenwald has far less sympathy for the very real Congressional obstacles the White House faces in advancing their domestic agenda than I do. But I think we'd both agree that this is why you don't take tactics such as the ones Green identifies off the table -- if you can't get health care past your Ben Nelsons or your Joe Liebermans, at least leave no doubt that you tried.Glenn takes his view of Obama's larger indifference to this and fashions a fun little playlet for his readers. As you all know, I like fun little playlets, too!Yet numerous Obama defenders -- such as Matt Yglesias, Ezra Klein and Steve Benen -- have been insisting that there is just nothing the White House could have done and all of this shows that our political system is tragically "ungovernable." After all, Congress is a separate branch of government, Obama doesn't have a vote, and 60 votes are needed to do anything. How is it his fault if centrist Senators won't support what he wants to do? Apparently, this is the type of conversation we're to believe takes place in the Oval Office: The President: I really want a public option and Medicare buy-in. What can we do to get it?
Rahm Emanuel: Unfortunately, nothing. We can just sit by and hope, but you're not in Congress any more and you don't have a vote. They're a separate branch of government and we have to respect that.The President: So we have no role to play in what the Democratic Congress does?Emanuel: No. Members of Congress make up their own minds and there's just nothing we can do to influence or pressure them.The President: Gosh, that's too bad. Let's just keep our fingers crossed and see what happens then.That's pretty good. If I could offer some dramaturgical advice, however, I think that having Emanuel say, "Oh well, I'm off to key Jane Hamsher's car for insisting that we should 'help people,'" would be a much stronger exit line.

Democratic Healthcare vs. Republican Healthcare: A Play in Three ActsBy Nellieyah - Jun 27th, 2009 at 3:00 pm EDTAlso listed in: Obamans for Change in the Americas (CITA) | Voices for Change | Women for Obama Act I: Past

Narrator: Two ideologies are struggling for supremacy. One uses reason and persuasion and the other uses trickery and force.

Democratic Healthcare: The Great Depression is too great. We must do something to help the starving, unemployed masses. Let us make a New Deal to guarantee all citizens basic social services and economic security.

Republican Healthcare: No. We shall not secure anything for any masses. If we must make a New Deal, it must conserve such privileges only to those who qualify. Only Republican Healthcare Members and Associates will qualify.

Democratic Healthcare: And how do you propose to maintain, let alone profit in such and exclusive enterprise?

Republican Healthcare: Easy. We will guarantee all citizens basic payroll taxes to maintain it, and we will charge the healthiest Members and Associates the expenses of the sickest ones and those who are not qualified. Republican Healthcare profits will always increase.

Act II: Present

Narrator: The New Deal was declared, but the old ways die hard.

Democratic Healthcare: The Great Depression is coming! Quickly, we must act to save everything we know and cherish!

Republican Healthcare: Stop complaining! Every thing’s fine! No problem!

Democratic Healthcare: This is serious. Democracy, human rights, our economy and our futures are all at stake. We must change or risk massive chaos, death and destruction. A plague could strike at any moment. We cannot afford this greed and carelessness any longer!

Republican Healthcare: The only greed we cannot afford is that of the needy masses. They are using Big Government to tax private wealth and spend it on their selfish needs. If they don’t have private wealth, how can they expect to have private needs?! We have to stop these socialists from taking more than they’ve earned.

Democratic Healthcare: We of the Democratic Healthcare movement are prepared to make all citizens, including Republican Healthcare Members and Associates an offer you can’t refuse; to the citizens, you will be guaranteed basic social services and economic security. To the Republican Healthcare Members and Associates, you will profit and indulge in privileges envied the world over, including GOOD healthcare. In return, all citizens must contribute to their government, which administers the social services and provides the security. Also, the Republican Healthcare Members and Associates must contribute to their government, which administers the social services and provides the security.

Act III: Future

Narrator: The reasonable, morally correct ideology makes progress with a Universal Healthcare program

Universal Healthcare: I am America’s home for free. I have conquered the land of the brave. I am the living Statue of Liberty. I am the nation-wide flag, long may it wave.

The 24/7 News, 10 Second Sound Bite Blues

Nellieyah — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:41:48 EST

Morning, noon, and night. Seven days a week.
The news is big business, but the story lines are cheap.
Talking point gimmicks and sound bite repeats.
Snatching from victory to jaw about defeat.

I got the 24/7 news, 10 second sound bite blues.
Let them tell it, and I won’t have the right to choose.
Fear and lies in disguise won’t ever change the rules.
Selling the truth is the business of greedy fools.

Most trusted paparazzi. Fair and balanced infotainment.
Teasers for commercials. Scandals for containment.
Dumbing down society and distracting from enlightenment.
Denying Americans their freedom of information entitlement.

I got the 24/7 news, 10 second sound bite blues.
Let them tell it, and I won’t have the right to choose.
Fear and lies in disguise won’t ever change the rules.
Selling the truth is the business of greedy fools.

Where’s the hour long special investigating the news business authority?
Which day of the week will be devoted to the politics of the media itself?
When will solving problems and healing the world be high priority?
For how long can the corporate media elites sustain their wealth?

I got the 24/7 news, 10 second sound bite blues.
Let them tell it, and I won’t have the right to choose.
Fear and lies in disguise won’t ever change the rules.
Selling the truth is the business of greedy fools.

The Seven Woes & the Greatest Commandment: Mathew 23 and Mathew 22:34-40 with Commentary

Nellieyah — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:59:15 EST

Matthew 23 Seven Woes 1Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: 2"The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. 3So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. 4They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. The law makers may make laws, but they themselves often do not follow them. Today on the Sunday politics shows, the Republicans and the Wannabes were arguing against the public option because 1) it could lead to non-profit healthcare for all (i.e. single payer) and 2) they don’t want a government to truly represent the masses it governs (i.e. “big government”). One minute they argue that single-payer healthcare (or even a public option) is socialism, not good for a capitalist country. But, the next minute they not only argue against anti-trust laws for the insurance industry, but they actually want to increase these monopolies across state lines. 5"Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries[a] wide and the tassels on their garments long; 6they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; 7they love to be greeted in the marketplaces and to have men call them 'Rabbi.' The corporate media is playing the role of accomplice to the neo-cons crimes against humanity by asking virtually no tough questions or questions that feed right into the opponents of reform and progress’ talking points, allowing them to maintain good and honorable images in the eyes of the public. 8"But you are not to be called 'Rabbi,' for you have only one Master and you are all brothers. 9And do not call anyone on earth 'father,' for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. 10Nor are you to be called 'teacher,' for you have one Teacher, the Christ.[b] 11The greatest among you will be your servant. 12For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. It is as if the very Ann Coulter types who write books entitled “Godless” are truly evil, godless people themselves. What gives a politician the right to deny others access to the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness that comes with good health and socio-economic security? Is it money? Or maybe just power? 13"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.[c] For as long as members of Congress and powerful/wealthy elites in general continue to deny Americans the same quality healthcare and insurance coverage they themselves have, they are damned to hell. Obviously, many sinners are non-believers. Still, a child who doesn’t believe that playing in the streets is dangerous can still get hit by a car. 15"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as you are. For elites to use uneducated and/or misinformed “Tea Partiers” to do their bidding, even against their own lower income/middle class interests is truly abominable. These “Tea Baggers” will catch twice as much hell for being accomplices to these crimes against humanity. 16"Woe to you, blind guides! You say, 'If anyone swears by the temple, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.' 17You blind fools! Which is greater: the gold, or the temple that makes the gold sacred? 18You also say, 'If anyone swears by the altar, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gift on it, he is bound by his oath.' 19You blind men! Which is greater: the gift, or the altar that makes the gift sacred? 20Therefore, he who swears by the altar swears by it and by everything on it. 21And he who swears by the temple swears by it and by the one who dwells in it. 22And he who swears by heaven swears by God's throne and by the one who sits on it. The neo-conservatives who are doing everything in their power to derail, delay, or destroy reform and progress on every front, especially healthcare, will eventually lose their money and their power because nature, science, religion, ethics, culture and history all favor progress. In my opinion, so does God. 23"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. 24You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel. We progressives need to frame reform as a justice and a constitutional right issue, not a partisan policy issue as neo-cons continue to play the victims and claim they are denied the right to input. 25"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. 26Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. The corporate media has done little or nothing to inform the public about the need for reform. Instead of reports of anger, tax increases, “nearly a trillion dollars” cost, or “rationing” cancer screenings, the COULD BE doing reports comparing and contrasting with other developed nations, on the plight of the uninsured/under-insured, or the cost to small business and American jobs, or the inefficiencies and poor outcomes. When the “Tea Baggers” see how reform could help them and how the status quo is harmful, they can stop yelling idiotic things like “Get your government hands off my Medicare!” 27"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. 28In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. The message is clear: The past has cost us too much, left too many out, and provided too poor of quality outcomes. We need reform, and we will get reform, God-willing. 29"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You build tombs for the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous. 30And you say, 'If we had lived in the days of our forefathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' 31So you testify against yourselves that you are the descendants of those who murdered the prophets. 32Fill up, then, the measure of the sin of your forefathers! 33"You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell? 34Therefore I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town. 35And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. 36I tell you the truth, all this will come upon this generation. 37"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing. 38Look, your house is left to you desolate. 39For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.'[d]" The neo-cons are condemned to hell whether they have an “R” or a “D” in front of their name. They need not wait for the afterlife to experience this hell, because we are all at least sub-consciously aware of the various manifestations of hell on earth. Money and power are finite. But God is omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient. The Greatest Commandment 34Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. 35One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'[b] 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'[c] 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Equality and Justice have to become the progressive key words as we continue to try to reform some of the biggest institutions of our nation, our government, and our lives. Every politician should either vote to give We the People the same access and opportunities in life, health, education, and career that they have, or sacrifice their own in exchange for short-lived lives of disease, poverty, ignorance, and suffering. If they do not make this choice in this life, it will be made for them when they die and meet judgment.

The Needy

Nellieyah — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:48:52 EST

The needy are knee deep in debt. Up to their necks in regret. That somehow we still let ourselves forget. That even now we can’t seem to set it straight. Calling yelling and hate debating the issues. But the weight that the needy bear can’t wait. The needy have bad news burdens so great. Like, how to put food on a plate. The mood is called forsaken. Feeling shaken and appalled at how rude people can be, taking up all the cream of the crop for the few at the top. With a stingy and condescending attitude, bothered to have to stop and think about the needy. Pretending not to realize how greedy greed can get. Defending the best seed of deception. That the needy are to blame for their condition. That by simply wishing for economic security it could be so. The needy already know the reason why they have no place to go. Because it’s the law of the land. The needy already understand that they have no helping hand. The needy supply only demand, because they are denied the right to supply themselves. The haves have defined the have nots as deaf, dumb and blind. The needy are crying out for help, dying and numb inside. Left out and pushed aside. The needy are trying to survive. The needy are sick and tired of being sick and tired. The needy either aint got jobs, their job sucks, or they just got fired. The needy need for you and me to see what it’s like to live a day in their life, in their strife. We need to get right, and not fight against human rights for all human beings, even if their income is low, or poverty is their level, or their parent is single, or they live check to check, or their education is basic, or their title doesn’t get respect. The very existence of “the needy” is wrong. All God’s children to God belong.

Republicans for Rape in 2010

Nellieyah — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 17:45:13 EDT

If you want to vote for Republicans in 2010, consider it for mostly a bunch of dirty old white men. The kind of good ol’ boys that think rape is cool. They’ve raped the environment, the economy, the community, the school. They’ve raped the people, the treasury, the military, and the banks. They’ve raped the public discourse, and all the media think tanks. They’ve raped civil rights, women’s rights, and equality for gays. They’ve raped the future generations in countless ways. When they say no to “big government”, they mean “let us rape as we please”. When they say no to universal healthcare, they mean “we must profit from disease”. When they so no to regulation, they mean “jobs are cheaper overseas”. When they say no to reform, they mean “we govern for certain fees”. If you want to vote for Republicans ever again, consider it for mostly a bunch of dirty ol’ white men.

Big Boss Style

Nellieyah — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:54:20 EDT

Whoever pays the cost to be the boss must now pay close attention. Because those who boss the rest of us have purposely failed to mention that there is a difference between being a big boss and having Big Boss style. A big boss tries to enforce other’s loss. Big Boss style is beyond trial. A big boss needs followers and subordinates. Big Boss style inspires believers. A big boss prohibits powerful delegates. Big Boss style sponsors high achievers. A big boss would rather be feared and hated. Big Boss style makes love conquer all. A big boss refuses to be debated. Big Boss style debates the right call. A big boss wants the top of a pyramid. Big Boss style seeks to complete the sphere. A big boss is always eventually out bid. Big Boss style leaves a legacy to the near and dear.

Incite Insight In Sight

Nellieyah — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:54:01 EDT

Let’s incite insight instead of violence because wisdom and insight are still in sight. Insight into how the goal is still in sight. Let’s incite we the people to find it inside ourselves to be who we really are. Truly, insight means understanding. Insight is overcoming ignorance and limitation. Let’s keep the ultimate in sight. Let’s incite victory with our special resources. Let’s keep the finish line in sight. Deep inside we know what we must do. We must light the way. We must keep the flame. In sight we still see each other.

Proverbs 11 for 09-09-09

Nellieyah — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:16:46 EDT

1 The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight. 2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. I just heard Cindy McCain reiterate that tired old neo-conservative talking point that “we have the best healthcare in the world” on a Today Show interview this morning. The problem is they are measuring with their big egos, not with scientific data or overall outcomes. How could we be the best with nearly 50 million uninsured, and so many underinsured? How could we be the best when you could be denied care for having been sick in the past or becoming sick at any time? What about infant mortality rates and C-section deliveries? Has Mrs. McCain forgotten about the rise in chronic illness, obesity, cancer, and preventable deaths? She mentioned that she was happy her son came home from his tour of duty. But what about the new mothers who cannot afford to be at home with their children for more than a few weeks (if even) after birth, because our current employer based/for-profit healthcare system forces them back to their stagnant-wage jobs? The neo-cons will be disgraced when healthcare reform with a strong public option passes and succeeds. They’ll have to explain why they were denying Americans such basic rights for so long.

3 The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. I’m quite proud of my work for and with President Obama. If you look at all the blogs I’ve written, I have been correct in my views most all of the time, with superb timing, and a woman’s intuition like no other. While the media likes the ups and downs and the controversies of politics, I let my values and my integrity guide me. Tonight, I hope the so-called “Blue Dog” Democrats can find their values and integrity, lest they be destroyed for their two-faced support of the status quo vs. healthcare reform.

4 Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. 5 The righteousness of the blameless makes a straight way for them, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness. It seems the Blue Dogs are worried about the loss of campaign funding for the next election. They need to be worried about the loss of our country as we know it, when the status quo forces us over that proverbial economic crisis cliff we came so close to last fall 2008. They need to be worried about the swine flu and other pandemics turning epidemic. They need to be worried about judgment day, when God asks them how they served the needy. If they can do the right thing, and make healthcare for all a reality, then they will be taken care of, have successful careers, and enjoy the security of the most powerful nation in the world.

6 The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires. We all know that money and fear of poverty is what is holding moderates back from delivering real healthcare reform. Should they choose to continue to deny Americans this basic human right, (as defined by the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights), they will find themselves trapped in an ever more miserable condition. But, if they pass healthcare reform and see it through to success, we can be delivered from evil and make great good progress.

7 When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; all he expected from his power comes to nothing. As for the neo-conservatives, they can staunchly oppose CHANGE if they want to, but they will all die in due time. What good will their “waterloo” be in the grave? They can use hateful rhetoric to try to gin up support for violence, but they can’t kill us all, and even if they could, our spirit will live on for eternity.

8 The righteous man is rescued from trouble, and it comes on the wicked instead. Every time the neo-cons try to destroy Obama it either fails, or backfires, or both. It’s a little secret method I like to call “Boomerang Karma” where it doesn’t matter what they say or what they do, we win and they lose.

9 With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape. 10 When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.By ruling with fear instead of love, division instead of unity, ignorance instead of wisdom, the neo-cons and their moderate enablers set themselves up for revolt (i.e. CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN), weakness due to lack of numbers (i.e. WE ARE ONE), and folly (i.e. YES WE CAN)

11 Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed. 12 A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue. 13 A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret. 14 For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure. Republican talking points are gifts to the Democrats, because they’re so predictable and blatantly false most of the time. Time will always reveal the truth and justice will always prevail. The people who repeat back these talking points like automatons can be easily identified, and therefore handily out-smarted. All we need to do now is use intelligent, clear, honest rhetoric and terminology, take the actions that must be taken, bide our time, and let go and let God.

15 He who puts up security for another will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to strike hands in pledge is safe. 16 A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth. 17 A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself. 18 The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. Sarah Palin has been the “new face of the GOP” for long enough now for us to know that she suffers a lack of a real agenda. Her martyrdom is and always will be fruitless.

19 The truly righteous man attains life, but he who pursues evil goes to his death. 20 The LORD detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless. It may be time for Dick Cheney to check his pacemaker before he meets his maker.

21 Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free. Each Obama success is a Bush/GOP punishment.

22 Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion. Michelle Bachman and her fellow self-hating neo-conservative women are great examples of this waste of opportunity in return for filth and slander.

23 The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath. 24 One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. 25 A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. 26 People curse the man who hoards grain, but blessing crowns him who is willing to sell. 27 He who seeks good finds goodwill, but evil comes to him who searches for it. 28 Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. Treating people’s health as a for-profit commodity has got to stop. But, there is a much more profitable way, and it’s called the Golden Rule, or treat others as you want to be treated (This means YOU, rich people!) What if rich people were denied life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness simply because they couldn’t afford it? Welcome to God’s Kingdom, where there is only One Master.

29 He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise. The neo-cons may have hijacked our progressive message to think about the future generations. But their hypocrisy will lead to their punishment, because new generations of GOP members will be ever more in decline.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise. Remember the crowd of some 1.4 million on the Washington Mall for the inauguration? Or, the celebrations at each point of victory for Obama? Well, all this will be multiplied when it comes time to celebrate the passage of healthcare for all Americans!

31 If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner! We were made in God’s image, meaning we have a free will with the ability to both create and destroy. The choice our Congress has to make now, is which forces they will choose; the forces of creativity and progress or the forces of destruction and decline?

Why Obama Could Raise My Kids (When I Have Some)

Nellieyah — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:13:09 EDT

Lately, the news is “reporting” (i.e. supporting) that parents are against president Obama’s upcoming message to students. I find this sad and shameful for several reasons. First and foremost, because instead of people dealing with the message of promoting education, the storyline is reduced to whatever worst-case-scenario, boogey-man, bigoted, uneducated, egotistical view captures believers. Not only do I support whatever the president has to say in promotion of education, but I’m such a loyal Obama supporter, that I want my own kids to be raised with the values that he embodies, and be fully educated about his historic and heroic accomplishments.

President Obama is a wonderful example of the American Dream and a superb role model for all time. While the media tends to get caught up in the moment, which can easily be manipulated to spell failure or scandal in order to make a quick buck, I’ve been busy thinking about a better future… A better way.

Throughout his candidacy and early presidency, Barack Obama has been both the living legend AND the practical leader. He has been both a symbol of the most significant expression of democracy AND the challenge of divisive politics. That’s why I intend to educate my kids and youth in general about him. His story matches well with the values I hold dear. Such as:

You can make it if you try: Courage and Persistence I’ve heard all the naysayers who said that Barack Obama the candidate couldn’t win. They were wrong. Now, they’re saying Obama the president can’t lead. They’re dead wrong. Every day of his life he has to negotiate his own death, just for trying to be the leader of the free world in brown-skinned form. But, he doesn’t quit. He doesn’t pause for a second trying to right the wrongs of the past administration, and generally lead on all issues foreign and domestic, on behalf of all Americans. With courage, he shakes more hands and attends more events. With persistence, he endures insults to him self, his family, and innocent supporters.

You can be what you want to be: Dream Big President Obama seems to be the kind of guy who dreams big, and fortunately for him, it works! But, his opponents say he represents “Big Government” to try to diminish his great good fortune and scare people. Now, it seems that they don’t even want other children to get these “Big Ideas” that they could become empowered or successful either. What a shame. Real patriotism is appreciating the greatness of your country. But, now that the president is black, the media has yet to discredit ignorant arguments that Obama’s “Back to School” speech is a socialist brainwash, rather that the kind of public address a good leader should give, especially in a recession-plagued, declining education system.

You are the master of your own destiny: Personal Responsibility The media is quick to both subliminally and overtly suggest that Barack Obama is some kind of elitist. Sure, he’s unique, being the first black president and all. But, last I checked, nobody fought his early battles without a father for him. No one straightened him out and studied his books for him. No one held his hand through college and young adulthood. No one broke down the barriers at the Harvard Law Review and other institutions for him. Nobody sacrificed wealth for morality in his heart for him. No one believed it was worth risking everything, or leaving his wife a widow and his children fatherless for him. Like a tireless soldier, her rose to the rank of Commander in Chief, campaign stop after campaign stop. Interview after interview. Conference after conference. Debate after debate. Barack Obama is a man who I admire deeply, and would gladly let make a lasting impression on the minds of youth, especially my own children. Amen.

With Passion

Nellieyah — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:59:45 EDT

Compassion is the way to make the world a better place.
We chase the dream of making happiness a reality.
The totality of the human race is a blessing.
We give thanks and praises sing.
With passion we can work hard and play harder.
We make life worth living.
No matter old fashioned or brand new, our actions speaker louder than words, true.
We bring light to the lost.
No matter the cost.
We got it made in heaven sent to Earth.
Compassion is rebirth for a good reason.
We could end suffering and pain.
With passion we live not in vain.

Hate vs. Hope: The Showdown

Nellieyah — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 15:21:23 EDT

If you want some, get some. Now, it’s going down.
You get what you give. The hell-bent are hell-bound.
Division and violence are not the only way.
Just say what you mean, and mean what you say.
If you hate me for me, then who the hell are you?
I love me for me. But, I love all people too.
I hope you choose correctly just in the nick of time.
If you’re too late you’ll end up in the back of the line.
How does it feel to hate your own?
Does hate feel right to you, and love feel wrong?
Change is inevitable. But, your hypocrisy is incredible.
First, you say you want rights, and then try to take mine away.
You must want fights, because hope is here to stay!
For as long as God is good, I will survive.
Love will conquer anything hate could ever contrive.
I could hope that something bad would happen to you and yours.
But, all I really hope is that you simply change course.
I hope everyday in every way you’re getting better and better.
May get you get your every wish granted to the letter.
You get what you give, so if hate is why you live, your being hated is poetic justice most clever…Forever.

Hillary Clinton Went to Africa, Amen

Nellieyah — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:52:53 EDT

I was just catching up on the Huffington Post when I noticed the slideshow of Hillary's trip to Africa. I've been watching CNN and network news for the better part of today because I'm at the hospital sitting with one of the resident's from the state developmentally disabled facility I work for. I've been a total news junkie since the very beginning of the campaign, and at this point, now that we've finally made it to Healthcare Reform (my key issue as a healthcare worker), I am positively disgusted with the mainstream media. How dare they refuse to cover ANYTHING about Hillary's trip to the African continent! Oops, I guess I should give all the conglamerates some credit for their Bullshhhh story about "President Clinton is not the Secratary of State, I'm the Secratary of State!". If controversy, violence, political discord, and leadership problems are the only stories the mainstream media will report on, then why couldn't they find enough of that kind of thing in AFRICA!!!!!!! I guess I should be glad that at least Hillary went, (although it's hard to tell if there was any tangible result and/or success) because I was dissapointed enough with President Clinton's response (or lack thereof) to the genocide in Rwanda to completely rule out Hillary for President from jump. I refused to vote for someone who didn't do everything in their power to prevent that particular genocide, and promote the general progress for an entire continent of human beings, just to save political face. Not only does this trip help restore my political patronage to Hillary, but it vindicates the reasons I have volunteered for Obama, and why I continue to put up with the dumb shhhh in the mainstream/right-wing media. God Bless America, and I'm sure God can manage to Bless Africa too.

Get It

Nellieyah — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 15:49:07 EDT

Get it, get it go-getter.
Get it better. Get it in.
Get it done win-win.
Economic Recovery, get it, get it.
Healthcare Reform, get it, get it.
Scientific Discovery, get it, get it.
A brand new norm, ahh get it.
Get it, get it go-getter.
Get it better. Get it in.
Get it done win-win.
Stimulus success, get it, get it.
No more war, get it, get it.
Treat labor best, get it, get it.
No more poor, ahh get it.
Get it, get it go-getter.
Get it better. Get it in.
Get it done win-win.
Family values, get it, get it.
Cultural rebirth, get it, get it.
Plenty good news, get it, get it.
A saved Earth, ahh get it.
Get it, get it go-getter.
Get it better. Get it in.
Get it done win-win.

e Quality

Nellieyah — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 14:40:47 EDT

Hey, check out my blog.
I mean, when’s the last time you seen an e publication even the score with the powers that be?
Have you ever seen an essay change the world?
My e poetry enlightens as it entertains.
But, have you ever heard a thought silence opposition?
My ideas are addictive as well as attractive.
My logic is as superb as my logistics are superior.
My e quality excels above and beyond the e quantity.

Nellieyah Ngai
07-04-09
Independence Day

Democratic Healthcare vs. Republican Healthcare: A Play in Three Acts

Nellieyah — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 15:00:49 EDT

Act I: Past

Narrator: Two ideologies are struggling for supremacy. One uses reason and persuasion and the other uses trickery and force.

Democratic Healthcare: The Great Depression is too great. We must do something to help the starving, unemployed masses. Let us make a New Deal to guarantee all citizens basic social services and economic security.

Republican Healthcare: No. We shall not secure anything for any masses. If we must make a New Deal, it must conserve such privileges only to those who qualify. Only Republican Healthcare Members and Associates will qualify.

Democratic Healthcare: And how do you propose to maintain, let alone profit in such and exclusive enterprise?

Republican Healthcare: Easy. We will guarantee all citizens basic payroll taxes to maintain it, and we will charge the healthiest Members and Associates the expenses of the sickest ones and those who are not qualified. Republican Healthcare profits will always increase.

Act II: Present

Narrator: The New Deal was declared, but the old ways die hard.

Democratic Healthcare: The Great Depression is coming! Quickly, we must act to save everything we know and cherish!

Republican Healthcare: Stop complaining! Every thing’s fine! No problem!

Democratic Healthcare: This is serious. Democracy, human rights, our economy and our futures are all at stake. We must change or risk massive chaos, death and destruction. A plague could strike at any moment. We cannot afford this greed and carelessness any longer!

Republican Healthcare: The only greed we cannot afford is that of the needy masses. They are using Big Government to tax private wealth and spend it on their selfish needs. If they don’t have private wealth, how can they expect to have private needs?! We have to stop these socialists from taking more than they’ve earned.

Democratic Healthcare: We of the Democratic Healthcare movement are prepared to make all citizens, including Republican Healthcare Members and Associates an offer you can’t refuse; to the citizens, you will be guaranteed basic social services and economic security. To the Republican Healthcare Members and Associates, you will profit and indulge in privileges envied the world over, including GOOD healthcare. In return, all citizens must contribute to their government, which administers the social services and provides the security. Also, the Republican Healthcare Members and Associates must contribute to their government, which administers the social services and provides the security.

Act III: Future

Narrator: The reasonable, morally correct ideology makes progress with a Universal Healthcare program

Universal Healthcare: I am America’s home for free. I have conquered the land of the brave. I am the living Statue of Liberty. I am the nation-wide flag, long may it wave.

Zoom In

Nellieyah — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:53:39 EDT

Slow motion zoom in so fast it looks the same.
Like nothing ever changed.
It’s just a game called “Who’s got the Best Moves?”
The best moves are so on point they make periods look like nothing.
Zoom in closer than close, until who knows what.
Zoom in like it was meant to be all along.
Quickly focus on the center until it grows bigger and bigger.
Zoom in until that picture perfect moment becomes everything.
Smile!

What's Wrong with the Current Healthcare System?: the Voices for Change Presription for Healthcare Reform

Nellieyah — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:47:55 EDT

Big healthcare business is corrupt more often than not. Redefine what good healthcare is.
Healthcare workers like myself are generally overworked, underpaid, underachieving, and devalued. Offer healthcare system models that are flexibly scheduled for optimal productivity. Pay direct caregivers at the least a living wage, but ideally a solid middle-class lifestyle with upward mobility. Teach children and all ages the need for and the values of being responsible for the well-being of others, i.e. the art of care giving.
The current healthcare system is biased against healing and prevention and towards sickness and fear of death. Reward the healthcare providers and businesses that can promote health and wellness with the greatest outcomes. Reform the ones that have profited the most from waste, fraud and abuse.
Over-priced, over-used drugs, procedures, surgeries, interventions, products and services go unchallenged as a standard practice. Negotiate better healthcare so that all the major parties involved, including industry, labor, consumers, and others all get a fair share.
Long-term care facilities are too much like prisons instead of places of health and wellness. Wellness starts with free will, so consumer’s choices should be respected. This means big healthcare industry interests must begin to give smaller/local operations a fair chance to compete.
Birthing alone costs enough to bankrupt the average wage earner, practically cursing the day each child is born. Stop sneakily taxing life’s natural processes and start investing in healthy individuals who are able and willing to promote a healthy society.
A system dominated by a bureaucratic, law-suite avoiding mentality tends to rely on so called “privacy” and individualism that denies the human need for positive social/communal relationships in order to enjoy and maintain good health. Practice healthcare as a group effort for families and communities and as a team effort for healthcare providers, businesses, and the government.
Abuse, waste, and fraud of all kinds frequently go undetected, under-reported, and unresolved. Especially spouse abuse, child abuse, sexual abuse, and psychological abuse. Educate people early and often about the dangers of waste, fraud, and abuse. Give them the solutions and tools they need to confront these problems.
The failure to address the abuse in the lives of consumers is one of the gravest abuses of the healthcare industry. The industry goes on to generate a plethora of abuses, mostly for financial gain. Enforce real consequences for healthcare industry corruption, beginning with profit losses to competition that values health and wellness above profit.
Medical doctor schooling and training can be so prohibitive to average people, leaving often grandiose responsibilities in the hands of an elite few. Reform the institutions that create and maintain medical professionals using needs-based models.
Many disciplines and professions outside of being a doctor are seen as less capable of effecting good health. Be more opportunistic, innovative, and flexible in the approach to providing good healthcare. Give everyone from customer service and housekeeping, to food service and nursing the same dignified value of a doctor or surgeon.
Nurses, therapists, counselors, and holistic healers are almost always denied the right to practice independent of an omnipotent, but disconnected doctor’s orders. Give other professionals the legal and moral authority and autonomy they need to maximize their services and successful outcomes. Spread both the risk and responsibility as well as the privilege and recognition around amongst doctors and others.
Schools, workplaces, and public places and events are far too dependent on very expensive, but very limited emergency care, leaving the masses helpless amongst themselves. Educate and train everyone, in all major public places about location-specific health, safety, fitness, first-aid, and emergency issues early and often.
Proper pandemic and/or bio-warfare preparedness in nearly impossible due to a privatized, for-profit healthcare system that rejects government, regulation, and needs-based business models. Create a universal healthcare plan that can provide for a universal problem or illness.
Denying people health insurance simply because they have been sick in the past, i.e. a pre-existing condition, is amoral, inhumane, and unsustainable as a business whose sole purpose is to insure the care of the sick and promote health and wellness. Create a universal healthcare system that is a birthright to all American citizens, naturalized residents, and qualified persons.
Every healthcare institution that I’ve worked for and that I know of is shamefully lacking in providing proper nutrition, exercise, and education to both its consumers and to its own workforce. Start with the workforce, then with the consumers and practice good healthcare.
The future of medicine is entirely too concerned with capitalizing on products and services rather than solving the global crises of epidemic and pandemic disease, malnutrition, hunger, environmental issues, and poverty. Make social responsibility more profitable than greed through innovation, practicality, and needs-based models achieving positive outcomes. When demand is high and supply is good, peace and prosperity result.

Freedom Sale

Nellieyah — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 14:36:13 EDT

If freedom isn’t free, then how much does it cost?
Blood, sweat, and tears?
Hard labor and involuntary servitude?
Life and death?
Or maybe, just money?
How many dollars does freedom cost?
Please, somebody tell me, so I can pay my dues.
Then, maybe I’ll get credit where credit is due.
Then, maybe my earnings will count too.
When I am free, I’ll set the price.
When I’m free, I’ll corner the market, and stop going in circles.
I’ll open a family business and give birth to a legacy.
A legacy of freedom given freely to the right prodigy born with the gift of inheritance.
The inheritance of birth rights, human rights and civil rights.

Cipher One Cyber

Nellieyah — Sun, 31 May 2009 14:43:03 EDT

Fantasy seems like reality, but it's not.
Reality is a bunch of fantasies.
Good, bad, pretty, ugly, old and young.
In the cyber zone, anything is everything.
But, in the end, it's nothing at all.
Zero one, zero one, one zero.

Good Healthcare is the Key to World Peace

Nellieyah — Sat, 30 May 2009 14:53:21 EDT

Healthcare is the conscious effort to maintain balance in the spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical lives of human beings. It is the science of expressing and healing human suffering, illness, pain, confusion, and mortality. It is the very act of living, and therefore a good way to earn a living. I have found true happiness working in healthcare, and I believe that if humanity as a whole focused its energies on healthcare, world peace would result.

Spiritually, I am compassionate, altruistic, and profound. Mentally, I am inquisitive, intelligent, and wise for my young age. Emotionally, I'm very sentimental, sensitive, and empathetic, but also passionate, ambitious, and confident. All of these qualities make being a certified nursing assistant an excellent way to support my physical being. I am learning to practice virtues such as charity, humility, compassion, patience, perseverance, and faith. My job duties are to affirm each patient's vitality, and to assist them with the activities of daily living, such as breathing, hygiene, nutrition, exercise, and medical treatment. Nursing requires me to be mentally adept, emotionally mature, and physically fit. I feel like I'm using my potential to the fullest, which creates a heartfelt sense of peace.

Now, if only I could convince others of the sublime value in healthcare and human services… Together, we will make sure that others stay alive and well! We will have clean air to breath, a healthy environment, and a thriving ecosystem. If we care enough about the health of all living beings, we can end violence, poverty, hunger, homelessness, epidemic disease, and the destruction of our planet. I'm positive that when everyone thinks like a health caregiver, we will all reach our highest human potential and attain world peace!

D is for Dossier: the Intelligent Alphabet

Nellieyah — Tue, 19 May 2009 14:43:27 EDT

A is for access to information
B is for behavioral study
C is for criminal investigation
D is for dossier (clean, not muddy)
E is for existential threat
F is for false evidence
G is for grin and bear it
H is for hard intelligence
I is for international issue
J is for justice supreme
K is for killer to pursue
L is for lies for the team
M is for misdemeanors and high crimes
N is for no justice, no peace
O is for oppressive times
P is for policy police
Q is for questioning suspect
R is for rule of law
S is for suspicious project
T is for "Tell us what you saw".
U is for undercover decoy
V is for valuable source
W is for warriors to deploy
X is for xenophobic remorse
Y is for yes-men asset
Z is for zero hour
This is the intelligent alphabet because knowledge is for power.

Rock Bottom

Nellieyah — Sun, 10 May 2009 14:50:03 EDT

Rock bottom is not up in the air.
Rock bottom is already here.
Rock bottom was scandal after scandal.
Rock bottom was attacks we couldn't handle.
Rock bottom was violent lies and inappropriate affections.
Rock bottom was long waits and stolen elections.
Rock bottom was a thousand crises never averted.
Rock bottom was injustice and democracy perverted.
Rock bottom was arrived at in the past.
Rock bottom is a new foundation coming up fast.

Boomerang Karma

Nellieyah — Sun, 03 May 2009 14:39:58 EDT

What goes around comes around.
What you give you get.
Karma is spiritual, but also logically sound.
Still, some don't get it yet.

When you use fear in order to immobilize,
people eventually fight or flee you.
When you use propaganda to demoralize,
they ultimately seek the honest-to-God info that's true.

Some are so eager to manufacture fear
that they use bio-weapons to start a health scare.
But, 24/7 fear-mongering is too much to bear.
People want real security through universal health care.

If you use negativity as a means to an end,
be careful what you wish for.
Boomerang karma is the most natural trend,
so your own suffering is surely what's in store.

Let the do-gooders do more and more good.
Let the bad-doers do what they will.
The good guys will receive the rewards that they should.
The bad guys will learn boomerang karma is real.

People Power

Nellieyah — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:22:21 EDT

Power to the people who get out and work for a living.
The people who keep on giving what it takes to function and thrive.
The people that survive on whatever.
Power to the people who never give up hope.
The people who teach the youth.
Preaching truth and practicing what they preach.
The people that reach for the stars.
Power to the people who come up in an honest good way.
The people who mean what they say, and say what they mean.
The people that have seen the light.
Power to the people who might be better together.
The people who figure "united we stand, divided we fall".
The people that hear the call for help and answer.
Power to ALL the people who look after one another.
Democracy is people power.
Hypocrisy is failure.
Leadership is representation.
Tyranny leads to indignation.
Democracy is people power.
Selfishness is ignorance.
Government is liberation.
Lawlessness leads to damnation.
Democracy is people power.
Laziness is stupidity.
Security is fundamental.
Fundamentalism leads to the detrimental.
People are diverse and therefore power is shared.
Dictatorships are exclusive and therefore always scared.
People are valuable and therefore take priority.
ALL the people deserve to have some authority.

Blogoshpere: American Haiku II

Nellieyah — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 20:11:24 EDT

Who can decipher
the codex can deliver
the ultimate truth.

The sphere is hidden
in order to protect it.
Please handle with care

The Rebirth of a Nation: American Haiku

Nellieyah — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 14:53:21 EDT

Whose reconstruction
is going to work better?
Only time will tell.

Can justice prevail?
Will the truth be revealed?
Can the nation heal?

Blossoms burst open.
New generations are born.
Death is not the end.

The Homeless and the Heartless: The Lion King's Kingdom

Nellieyah — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 16:53:09 EDT

Long, long ago, there used to be a most revered proverb that said "Home is where the heart is". But, its true meaning was lost to modern society over time. By the time that "lion among men" Barack Obama was crowned King of the Jungle of American politics, a great number of the many creatures of the land had already lost their homes and their livelihoods. Most everyone was well aware of the threat of further losses and economic instability. Still, the hunters and predators known as neo-conservatives were heartless towards the many creatures.

These hunters and predators banded together in packs and dROVEs against the new leadership because they were against the new rules regulating hunting (i.e. speculating) and other predatory practices. So, they decided to plot to destroy the King, and in doing so, weaken the people. When the election was over and lost, they held a secret contest amongst themselves to see who could hatch the best plot. The winner was guaranteed the leading role in the new military regime, and the grandeur of heroic status for appearing to bring some kind of order following the chaos of the King's destruction.

Because the neo-cons contest was held in secret, and they were in the minority, no one really knew for sure who was competing, who was judging, who was supporting and who was sabotaging. They were so used to being heartless toward the common folk, that they began to loose any real sense of trust, confidence, and common purpose with each other.

Just when they thought the next great leader had the perfect plan to destroy Barack Obama, a heartless neo-con colleague snitched, and the word spread like wild fire. The leak was born of a jealous selfishness that would sacrifice the greater good for fleeting rewards. This heartlessness eventually destroyed the neo-conservative movement and left them without a base to call home. They were ridiculed everywhere as the "neo-crazies".

Having defeated his opposition in what appeared to the people as almost effortlessly, Barack Obama was even more endeared to their hearts. Like a modern day superhero, the Lion King made his kingdom a wonderful place to call home.

At the Center

Nellieyah — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 11:59:53 EDT

I used to love to be at the South Madison Neighborhood Center.
We stayed at "the Center".
I miss everything from playing on the computer to playing games, to art class, to lock-ins and field trips.
I miss summer day camp and dance troupe and cheerleading.
I remember the busy sounds of street ballin' inside, and playing ping pong, and doin' "Penny Drops" on the playground.
'Member Summerfest?
'Member the Block Party?
Lookin' back, I appreciate all those neighborhood role models.
And the classes and workshops and community functions.
We had good times and we made good memories.
Those were the days.
But, it aint the same no more.
"The Center" aint "the Center" no more, 'cause it's been privatized.
You can't run in and out of the Boys and Girls club like you could run in and out of "the Center".
It just aint the same.
But, that's what they want.
They want to privatize the most valuable public resources.
They want to privatize the community until there's no more unity.
Who needs "the Center" when you can build more prisons for profit?
Who needs "the Center" when you need soldiers for war?
"The Center" was always for the people.
'Member the civil rights murals?
And the summer jobs for neighborhood kids?
It aint the same no more.
The people are prisoners in their own skin because they want everything privatized.
I say give the people what the people want …
Free access to each other…
In public.

Profit Prophet

Nellieyah — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 13:31:40 EDT

I see big profits in the future.
Must be 'cause I come from humble beginnings.
So, any income means a lot.
I see that the best things in life are free.
When God set my soul free, I miraculously became wealthy with endless riches.
So, since I already have the most valuable thing in the world, my freedom, anything added to it is profit.
What is a palace when my body is my temple?
No threads are woven better than my skin.
Who needs to look at shiny things when mine eyes have seen the glory?
For all the treasures out there in the world, none compare to the precious spirit within me.
This divine spark that I am is so in demand, even the Devil himself wants to buy it.
The Devil with all his powers and trickery can't make me sell it.
I won't sell my soul for no profit, because my free spirit is my most valuable asset.
More than one in a million, or one in a billion, or one in a trillion.
I am one in infinity for eternity.
That's how I know the future is getting brighter.
The increase of my value gets better with time.

Loyalty and Respect

Nellieyah — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 17:39:40 EDT

Loyalty is the act of keeping certain commitments and/or legal obligations; Legal as in lawful, rightful, moral, or justifiable duties and/or responsibilities. Loyalty requires an attitude of willful decision making based on sound logic and values. Because nature is so abundant and diverse, loyalty entails a significant amount of effort and energy to be loyal to anything specific. It seems that modern times and popular culture have abandoned the practice of loyalty and even the mere mentioning of such an ideal for greed's sake.

Apparently, it is more profitable to persuade people to abandon most all noble ideals, aspirations of virtue, sound reasoning, and common cause in exchange for a society ruled by fear, propaganda, and irrational ideologies. With modern day global capitalism for example, big corporations encourage a kind of carpe diem/ "Live for today" attitude that is dangerously unsustainable. Despite the conventional wisdom that says big corporations want their customers to have "brand loyalty', what they want more than anything is to have their customers be wasteful so that demand can ever out-pace supply. Big corporations have gone to great lengths to get people completely dependent on things they don't need or things they can do for themselves, constantly living in fear of material loss. I remember how the "Y2k" scare exposed our utter vulnerability and dependence, and it seems like we've been living in an "End Times" fear mode ever since.

The real loss is the loss of humanity, creativity, self-sufficiency, and sustainability that big corporations have led us to. Take something as basic as clothing for example; when people stop making clothes for themselves and leave it to big corporations to do it for them, humanity is lost when sweatshops crop up in mass. More humanity is lost when popular culture demands that you buy those sweatshop products totally ignorant of the victims, at a totally over-priced cost, with consumer credit rather than real earnings or savings (because you don't produce, just consume) ;Or else forfeit the self-esteem and self-respect that comes with being trendy or even plain "normal". Creativity is lost when buying factory copies is far trendier than discovering unique hand-made designs. Self-sufficiency is lost when most people are completely dependent on totally impersonal big corporations for every single article of clothing, accessory, piece of jewelry, or adornment. Part of what I love about Native American pow wows is that the hand-made regalia includes culture, tradition, creativity, function, nature worship, festivities, and trade skills all at once! Of course, the various Native Americans used more sustainable natural products and fibers as well. When compared to the modern day clothing industry's use of sweatshops and earth-polluting business practices, Native American dress could be a role model, and pow wows could be the new popular way to socialize.

It's a matter of respect. Respect is the act of holding something in good esteem. Greed is the exact opposite of respect because greed is inconsiderate and selfish. Respect is the act of consideration and the attitude of giving what is of value. Modern day politics have been dominated by an ideology of greed and fear; Greed for more material gain, fear of material loss. But, I believe the change that the Barack Obama presidency offers is politics dominated by loyalty and respect. I am a loyal Obama supporter because I respect him and his policies. No neo-conservative talking point can corrupt this loyalty and respect. Only corruption itself can. Lately, the pundit's big talking point is the constant low-level implication that Obama and his administration are "corrupt" or "failed". That his cabinet picks are "flawed" and "tainted". That Secretary Geithner is somehow responsible for the exposure of Wall Street corruption, and therefore he's responsible for the corruption it self, etc, etc…

The hypocrisy is disgusting and disgraceful. It is the Bush administration that has been perhaps the most corrupt in American history. I thank God every day that Barack Obama is president. I don't care what corporate media big wigs say, I have been and fully intend to stay full of loyalty and respect for Barack Obama.

Justice

Nellieyah — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 21:13:17 EST

I look forward to the time when justice is all we need.
The time when every worker is legal and every slave is freed.
I can't wait for the day when justice prevails.
The day we uphold the Constitution and all the rights it entails.
I fantasize about the hour when justice is the real super power.
The hour when people are watching Big Brother's watchtower.
I get excited about the moment when justice is not criminal.
The moment when the truth is not hidden and the message is not subliminal.
Above all the things in my life that are a must,
right now all I need is justice.

Reparations

Nellieyah — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:52:28 EST

Just give me 40 acres and a mule. I'll take good care of my land and animals.
Give me 40 acres and a mule, and just watch my harvest grow more bountiful.
If I had 40 acres and a mule, my family would be healthy, my friends happy, and my business good.
With 40 acres, I'd build a dream house. I'd own it out-right and pass it down.
My mule might work hard, but never too much, and always well compensated for the contribution.
You can't give me back what you took. You can't give me freedom. Freedom is mine.
Just show me by giving me back the free space, living space called "land".
Give me back the basic tools of self-reliance.
And just watch me heal a wounded nation.
See the best things in life flourish again.
The best things that are free.
We need reparations for slavery.

Hate Crimes

Nellieyah — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:41:47 EST

Rod Blagojevich's hair.
Roland Burris' smile.
Sneaky taxes on the working poor.
Sneaky bailing out big wigs like its going out of style.
Republican only bipartisanship.
Helping people is being wasteful.
Superficial definitions of citizenship.
Being respectful and considerate is being rude and distasteful.
CEOs getting bonuses while everyone else cuts back.
It's not a "bonus", it's a "retention award".
Americans loosing jobs, but "Buy America" is the wrong track. Blocking stimulus is moving forward.
Minimum wage is good enough.
Living wage is non-negotiable.
If you can't afford stuff, you don't need stuff.
Privatizing is being more sociable.
Lawless war secures law and order.
Occupation is liberation and democracy.
A massive fence with massive breaches in it secures the border.
Telling the truth is useless compared to hypocrisy.

Meltdown

Nellieyah — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 14:53:32 EST

Sometimes in the middle of a heated meltdown there is a return to the cold core.
Like refined gold, or hand blown glass, dripping hot liquids become cold hardened surfaces.
Glass and metal work's finished products both chill what is cold and heat what is hot.
Like a hot skillet or a cold drink.
Like a glass baking dish or a steel ice box.
The meltdown is a conductor.

Sex, Power and Money: Mutual Satisfaction vs. Sadomasochism

Nellieyah — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:46:38 EST

Sex, power and money have always been closely intertwined both ideologically and biologically. Women have always tried to increase the attractiveness of their sex in order to gain power over men and better their chances at economic security. Women’s modern day obsession with cosmetics and cosmetic surgery demonstrate this well. Men have always sought out power and economic security in order to gain access to the opposite sex. Men’s modern day obsession with status symbols such as fancy cars, big guns, and jumbo jets are also well known. But, there are two conflicting ideologies that govern this worldly trinity and these are mutual satisfaction and sadomasochism.

Sadomasochism tends to be the dominating ideology simply because it is a system of dominance and submission. Sadists get pleasure from causing pain, and masochists get pleasure from being caused pain. In this system, men dominate over women and children, the powerful dominate over the powerless, and the rich dominate over the poor. This is the essence of the neo-conservative agenda, and this is why they are afraid of the change that Barack Obama and the Democrats have promised to bring. They are afraid that the tables will turn, and they will end up on the submissive, weaker, painful side. They do not even acknowledge the possibility of mutual satisfaction.

Mutual satisfaction is the change we need in our ideologies and political practices. Equality, justice, harmony, and win-win situations are all synonymous with mutual satisfaction. Sexually, women and children should be protected from abuse and discrimination, as well as intentionally empowered by men. The passage of the Lily Ledbetter Act and the SCHIP children’s health insurance program are small steps in the right direction. The election of Barack Obama as president has helped to bring the power back to the people. But, Congress, the courts, and the people must continue to wrestle our power back from the hands of the greedy bastards known as the neo-cons. Economically, the current crises can only be solved by giving people good jobs with living wages and benefits, by regulating Big Business better than in the past, and by creating new opportunities (and maintaining traditional ones) to live the American Dream. Yes we can!

About Last Night

Nellieyah — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 14:59:52 EST

Last night I went to a local Economic Recovery House Meeting where I discovered that being a grassroots organizer after the election is easier said than done. It was incredibly challenging to get there, as I would have rather spent my day off relaxing my Democratic donkey ass on my exquisitely comfortable couch after running my errands for the day. But, I set out on an adventure as it turns out, the already inconvenient bus schedule is even worse in the evening. I did a whole lot of walking, and it was colder than a Witchconsin witch's tit the whole way. Plus, the one bus I did catch was delayed by a "crack head" being questioned by police about the alleged disposal of drug paraphernalia at the bus transfer point. But, it was all worth it just to witness folks gathered, actively discussing our political future. And, though it wasn't one of those adrenaline pumping Obama rallies, it was a steady percolating political buzz...Ahh, and so gratifying.

Elixir

Nellieyah — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 21:04:12 EST

I got that good, good formula. I can turn base metal into gold.
I got that nice, nice potion. The game is to be told, not to be sold.
The right mix, the right combo, the right blend, the right set.
I get what I want, and I want what I get.
So, what's my trick? It's not magic. It's technique tried and true.
I co-create with God to make it do what it do.
Step one, I dream big. For me, the sky is the limit.
My mind is not bound, and my heart is not timid.
Step two, I articulately affirm the positive.
I find the things I need are the things I already have to give.
Step three, I take action and labor out of love.
What I sow down below, I'll reap up above.
Everything in moderation. Nothing too extreme.
Not too nice a push-over. Not too ambitious and mean.
Not too blinded by faith. But, not too hopelessly lost.
Not too attached to anything. But, not too unwilling to pay the cost.
I got that good, good formula. I live like an alchemist mixer.
I got that nice, nice potion. I am that I am the perfect elixir.

Up and Coming

Nellieyah — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 18:28:10 EST

We came up. On a shoestring, and a hope, and a prayer. At first, we just barely had enough to get by. Then, in the blink of an eye, we came up. From the bottom to the top. We went from rags to riches. We just couldn’t stop, and now look what we’ve got. It seemed like we’d be stuck behind forever. But, in my mind, I knew whatever our hearts desired would never leave us nor forsake us. I knew it would take us higher. So, we came up. Like a burning fire that doesn’t consume, there was always more room to grow bigger and brighter and better. We blazed a new path like no other trendsetter. And, for once it’s not so lonely at the top. Look what we’ve got. We’ve got each other. We came up, together.

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change...(8) Activism/Civil Service

Nellieyah — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 01:51:08 EST

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change…(8)Activism/Civil Service My generation has been the secret ingredient that helped make the historic Barack Obama presidential victory. Throughout the incredibly long, drawn out campaign, the mainstream media never seemed to find the time to give us youngsters credit were credit was due. The pollsters, the pundits, and the panderers all seemed to count us out. But naturally, it was only a matter of time before my generation came into power. Now, as one of the more articulate voices of American youth, I would like to share my vision for our collective future. Also, I didn’t want to leave anyone who may be hooked on my brilliant creative works hanging…for too long. So, here’s my wish list for a better world. I’ve organized my thoughts on the topics of (1)Healthcare/Public Assistance, (2)Education/Higher Learning, (3)Business/Labor, (4) Energy/Environment, (5)Food/Agriculture, (6) Domestic Policy/Homeland Security, (7) Foreign Policy/International Security, (8) Activism/Civil Service by using a 5 step formula for success; 1.Put people and/or living things first, 2.Maintain high moral and ethical standards, 3. Seek out sustainability and longevity, 4.Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity, and 5. Compare and contrast with similar programs or objectives of the past and from abroad.

Is it really better to give than to receive, and if so, why? If technology’s goal is generally convenience and less work, then how can hard work make progress or be ideal? Does one gain more power by willfully dominating over others or by willfully submitting to others in service? What is the difference between righteous livelihood and wicked materialism? As a deep Christian thinker and a Buddhist philosopher, I have my own set of answers to these difficult questions which make up the foundations of my value system and my faith. Obviously, I’m happy to share these ideas with as many people as possible. Hence, the internet blog essay. But, why am I doing this?

Conventional wisdom might not lead you to believe that I’m rich, I’m famous, or that I’m powerful...I’m just a volunteer political activist, blogging on barackobama.com. But, when you think about it deeply, and ponder the hidden forces behind this historical success, perhaps my volunteer (i.e. free) service has helped shape a movement that led to the richest presidential campaign in history. Maybe my creative writings have been or will be viewed by some of the most famous eyes on the world-wide web. And maybe, just maybe my intelligence and my talent have helped to turn mass chaos into grand order, humble beginnings into the most powerful office of the most powerful country, AND widespread depression, anxiety, and stagnation into widespread inspiration, motivation and passionate activism.

So, back to my original philosophical questions: Is it really better to give than to receive, and if so, why? Of course it’s better to give than to receive. From the beginning, I was already happy to give my service to Barack Obama’s presidential campaign. But, once I heard his name “Barack” means “one who is blessed”, I was positively delighted to volunteer. I knew he was a winner because the song “God Bless the Child That’s Got His Own” made famous by Billie Holiday says “Them that’s got, shall have. Them that’s not, shall lose. So the bible says, and it still is news. Mama may have. Papa may have. But, God bless the child that’s got his own.” Bible scriptures such as Mathew 25:29 seem to agree; “For everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.” In short, God’s mathematics equates service with abundance, because you can’t give what you don’t have. So, the more you give, the more you have. But, if you don’t give what you do have, it’s use it or loose it. If technology’s goal is generally convenience and less work, then how can hard work make progress or be ideal? Conventional wisdom says that the wealthier you are, the more convenience and service you can afford, and the less work you need to do. But, I prefer to consider strong work ethics to be more profitable than wealth itself. Mathew 25 also gives investment advice that basically says that if you work hard and take risks, you can double or infinitely increase your assets. But, if you bury your assets, do nothing, and don’t even make the least effort to grow them, then they will be taken away and/or given to someone whose efforts merit them. Does one gain more power by willfully dominating over others or by willfully submitting to others in service? Conventional wisdom says that whoever has the brute force to do as they please is more powerful than one who is morally restricted to non-violent conduct. In other words, in War Lords vs. Worshipers of the Lord, supposedly the War Lords win. Yet, Mathew 25 says that those who aid and serve the needy serve God, and deserve God’s kingdom of heaven. But, those who do not serve the needy do not serve God, and they deserve hell fire. War is hell. But, good people helping each other are a little bit of heaven on earth. Activism and Civil Service are the living expressions of God Almighty's loving-kindness. What is the difference between a righteous livelihood and a wicked materialism? A righteous livelihood requires hard work and self-sacrifice for a moral cause. Wicked materialism seeks something for nothing and puts profit and convenience above all else. If I ruled the world, people who write blogs as cool as mine would totally rule! I’ve put everything I’ve got into these works for a better America and for a better world. I work hard, and I don’t ask for much more than the opportunity to work hard in peace. The rewards are priceless and the history being made is timeless.

1. Put people and/or living things first. Helping the needy should be more common place and conventional wisdom than division and violence are. Money, power, and privilege are not only less divine than living things are, but they are typically what corrupts and destroys living things. Activism means working for a cause greater than one’s self. Civil service means helping people. If I ruled the world, the current military-industrial complex would be seen as inherently corrupt because activism and civil service alone can create an abundance of money, power, and privilege.

2. Maintain high moral and ethical standards. If Jesus Christ were alive right now, what would Jesus do? As far as I know, he was the Prince of Peace, so he would end wars and create world peace. He was a healer and source of comfort for the sick, so he would provide universal healthcare. He was able to walk on water, so he would use miraculous powers to conquer climate change. He fed many people with very little bread and fish and he turned water into wine, so he would end world hunger and promote healthy diets. His house was and still is the church, so he would use faith centers and community centers to end homelessness and improve housing and economic conditions for his people. He was a teacher and a prophet, so he would educate us and lead us to a better life. He was a messiah, so he would save us from our own sinful damnation with his hope, his power, and his glory. Whether one is Christian or not, surely everyone has a value system upon which to base their political ideology and the active expression of it.

3. Seek out sustainability and longevity. For-profit enterprises are always limited and finite. By nature, they seek to measure and quantify things for profit’s sake. Our current economic crisis is a perfect example of how too much greed ultimately leads to state's inability to provide the basic services that all American citizens and all human beings deserve. But, non-profit enterprises and volunteer services are unlimited and infinite. When people give charitably, their efforts are priceless and their legacy becomes timeless.

4. Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. I may be the creator of Voices for Change on barackobama.com, but I am not unique in having so much to say about this presidential election. Of course, there is an entire industry filled with professionals and veterans of the business known as “the media”. But, I am unique in that I am blogging completely original creative works free of charge. Unlike media pros, I don’t get paid, but I’m not censored the way they are either. Unlike professional creative writers, I don’t get paid or recognized, but my works are not edited by publishers the way theirs is either. Unlike blogger pros, I don’t get recognition, but I don’t echo the same talking points of the day as the rest of the media either. Instead, I make the talking points my self, and instantly mass distribute them, free of charge. Regardless of whether or not I get money, or recognition, I know in my mind and with all my heart that I got Barack Obama elected president of the United States of America and that is reward enough for me.

5. Compare and contrast with similar programs and objectives of the past and from abroad. Materialism is an age-old vice that human-kind has struggled with since the beginning of time. The only cure for materialism is in civil service for moral purposes and ethical reasons. We are now at a defining moment in the history of humanity where we are given the choice between more materialism or more activism and civil service. If we choose more materialism, then regardless of a new American president, we are doomed to suffer more poverty, crime, war, terrorism, division, disease, hunger, depression, and destruction. If we choose activism and civil service, we can generate new wealth and prosperity, unity and community, peace, diplomacy, security, good health, well-being, hope, and inspiration. Yes we can!

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change...(7)Foreign Policy/International Security

Nellieyah — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 01:14:24 EST

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change…(7)Foreign Policy/International SecurityMy generation has been the secret ingredient that helped make the historic Barack Obama presidential victory. Throughout the incredibly long, drawn out campaign, the mainstream media never seemed to find the time to give us youngsters credit were credit was due. The pollsters, the pundits, and the panderers all seemed to count us out. But naturally, it was only a matter of time before my generation came into power. Now, as one of the more articulate voices of American youth, I would like to share my vision for our collective future. Also, I didn’t want to leave anyone who may be hooked on my brilliant creative works hanging…for too long. So, here’s my wish list for a better world. I’ve organized my thoughts on the topics of (1)Healthcare/Public Assistance, (2)Education/Higher Learning, (3)Business/Labor, (4) Energy/Environment, (5)Food/Agriculture, (6) Domestic Policy/Homeland Security, (7) Foreign Policy/International Security, (8) Activism/Civil Service by using a 5 step formula for success; 1.Put people and/or living things first, 2.Maintain high moral and ethical standards, 3. Seek out sustainability and longevity, 4.Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity, and 5. Compare and contrast with similar programs or objectives of the past and from abroad.

Peace and prosperity go hand in hand just like war and poverty do. Whenever a group, community, or society lives in harmony for an extended period of time, they eventually help each other meet their basic needs. When a group, community, or society has been able to help each other meet their basic needs for an extended period of time, they eventually work together to produce or enterprise their way toward prosperity. But, whenever a group, or community, or society fights with themselves or others for an extended period of time, they eventually deny each other the ability to meet their basic needs. When a group, community, or society has been unable to meet their basic needs for an extended period of time, they eventually deteriorate into crime and violence that leads to poverty.

Today, war and poverty plague the entire world over, even the nations that are supposedly wealthy and “developed”. The past 100 years of American history alone have seen several major wars, all of them efforts to protect our capitalist-democracy’s superiority and/or dominance in the world. So, it seems that we mistakenly make war in order to achieve prosperity. It is mistaken because if you look closely at wars, you will notice that in war-time people generally must sacrifice their lives and/or wealth in order to support the war effort. It is only after a successful mission in complete, in peace-time that societies can actually prosper from war treasures and victories. Like in the case of the great baby boom and middle class boom after WWII.

Currently, we are either involved in as a nation or witnessing several terrible wars. At home, we have War on Drugs that brings us anything but peace and sobriety. Drug lords capitalize on drug addict’s self-destruction, defy law and authority, and terrorize entire neighborhoods and communities. The criminal justice system brutally punishes both small time dealers AND users to no avail, costing innocent taxpayers money to arrest, try, and incarcerate them, as well as the hidden costs of ruined lives, battered families, and broken homes. We have a 2-front war in the Middle East, and we support Israel, who is currently attacking the Palestinians. While we do have a right to defend ourselves, we do not have a right to strike preemptively, without due diplomacy, at the expense of countless innocent civilians, all while knowingly causing humanitarian crises. We know that there is genocide in Africa, and despite all of our military might, economic wealth, and political power, “never again” has become “all the time”. We allow peaceful nations such as Tibet to suffer cultural genocide and human rights abuses, and despite our economic and political power over China, we continue to support China’s growth and expansion.

China is not the only “bad guy” we support in spite of well documented human rights abuses and unjust warfare. In fact, according to some far left-wing political thinkers of today, America has a history of setting up, arming, financing, and controlling tyrannical governments and dictatorships all over the world. I once listened to a book on CD called Confessions of an Economic Hit Man by John Perkins about an international banking/business agent who spent years purposely sabotaging other nation’s peace and prosperity, punishing the innocent masses, all in the name of war-profiteering for so very few. Also, several documentaries have questioned or entertained conspiracy theories that the Bush administration either caused or willingly allowed the 9/11 (and other) terrorist attacks to happen. Now that President Obama is just days away from taking office, public demand for investigation and prosecution of Bush administration war crimes is only growing and getting stronger.

There is only one path to peace; and that is by turning diplomacy into prosperity. For as long as it is profitable to deal drugs, people will do it. For as long as people suffer poverty and lack of opportunities, people will turn to substance abuse. For as long as war for resources (like oil), or war for its own sake is profitable, people will make it. For as long as oppressed and occupied peoples suffer poverty and lack of opportunities, people will turn to fundamentalism, extremism, and terrorism. For as long as violating international law is profitable or empowering, people will violate it. For as long as innocent civilians are targeted, militants and police will come to their defense. For as long as genocide is permitted and/or profitable, people will commit it. For as long as people needlessly suffer genocide and large scale human rights abuses, people will eventually lose hope and faith in tolerance and non-violent/peaceful protest. For as long as we as a nation aid, arm, finance, or ignore tyrants and dictators, we are not the land of the free, nor are we the home of the brave. Now, is the time to diplomatically seek peace and prosperity for all. Now is the time to rediscover America.

1. Put people and/or living things first. The whole point of the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Health Organization, and other similar international institutions is to better secure peace and prosperity than any one nation could alone. Before anyone takes up arms, either defensively or offensively, they need to seek out a resolution that restores or maintains peace and prosperity with little or no harm done, and with few or no lives lost. Diplomacy means finding win-win situations and/or compromises were two or more opposing parties can come to an agreement peacefully. It starts with one party asking the opponent what they want, then the original party explains what the original party wants. If the original party states what it wants with a “me first” attitude, then their statement will be taken as a demand. Also, the opponent is probably well aware of the original party’s position, which is why they took action against it. For example, the Israelis need to ask the Palestinians what it is they want. The Palestinians probably want land, political power, and prosperity, some of which they had previously, some that they’re currently fighting to maintain, and some of which they may not have had to begin with. After having heard the opposition out, the Israelis can then state their own wants and needs. The two sides and their allies must then negotiate a win-win scenario; God-willing such a thing exists. Neither side will get everything that they want, but neither will lose everything that they need.

2. Maintain high moral and ethical standards. Most all of us believe in God, or a Higher Power, or in the principles of morality and ethics themselves. In the case of Jews, Arabs, and Christians, we all believe in one God, and we all share some of the same Holy Word of God. Unfortunately, we all selfishly share the same Holy Land as well. Still, if we all practised the humility, peace, kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and mercy that our religions instruct us to, there wouldn’t be the warfare we currently experience and suffer from. Israelis (Jews) need to practise humility and charity when it comes to ownership of the Holy Land, for only God is the real Owner (Lord) and Creator. Palestinians (Arabs) need to practise forgiveness and mercy when it comes to their enemies, for Allah is the Compassionate and the Merciful example of how to live. Americans (Christians) need to practise prudence and peacefulness, as well as the Golden Rule, for Christ is the Prince of Peace who instructs us to “love our enemies” and “forgive them, for they know not what they do”. We are all God’s children, and the Creator made us all sinners when we are selfish, but perfect when we are selfless.

3. Seek out sustainability and longevity. All great civilizations are born of peace and prosperity, but die in war and poverty. America’s war-profiteering is now bankrupting the nation’s wealth of people, morality, military might, and political influence. In order to sustain our dominance and prominence in the world, we must empower individuals over business interests, we must act morally and ethically, we must refrain from abusing our military might, and we must use peaceful diplomacy as much as possible. I believe President Obama’s election is the first step on a very long journey towards sustainable and long-lived peace and prosperity. He has proven to be a history-changing force in the world, and I believe that his inspirational leadership and celebrity may win the kind of support of the masses needed to end wars of all kinds.

4. Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. The youth have been the secret force that elected President Obama and brought the country and the world to the brink of the Great Change. So, what if instead of only using heads-of-state, diplomats, politicians, and military officers to negotiate war and peace, we used activist youth on all sides of any given conflict to help secure a better future? I can envision youth forums, youth groups, youth organizations, and youth summits taking place all over the world, making the mission of World Peace a reality. In the case of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for example, I’m sure that young Israelis feel they have a right to be a sovereign nation, free from random missile attacks. And, I’m sure young Palestinians believe they have a right to self-determination and opportunities to succeed in life, in the only land them and their ancestors have known for generations. AND, surely American youth like my self are horrified at the war images coming from the Middle East, and we too want peace and prosperity for ourselves, and for the region. With technology like the internet, and President Obama’s call to service, we can build and maintain peace by creating new youth leadership programs. It reminds me of the Christian teaching that “you must be like a child to enter the Kingdom of Heaven”, and that “the meek shall inherit the Earth”.

5. Compare and contrast with similar programs and objectives of the past and from abroad. All the great empires from Egypt to Rome, Persia to Europe, America to Big Business have all eventually succumbed to war and poverty. America is still a great and mighty nation. But, with just a few days left in the Bush administration, I think it’s safe to say that we’re no longer the great economic success, military power, or moral authority we used to be. Our greed has led to rampant world poverty and world-wide credit crisis. Our militarism has led to the rise of terrorism, and apparently Osama Bin Laden just released another threatening message. Our policies of torture, lawlessness and war crimes have led to an American identity crisis. Certainly, these are difficult and desperate times. We must remember that what has survived from previous great empires usually tends to be their educational, scientific, artistic, and cultural achievements, all things which generally developed and flourished most in times of relative peace and prosperity.

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change...(6)Domestic Policy/Homeland Security

Nellieyah — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 20:05:10 EST

My generation has been the secret ingredient that helped make the historic Barack Obama presidential victory. Throughout the incredibly long, drawn out campaign, the mainstream media never seemed to find the time to give us youngsters credit were credit was due. The pollsters, the pundits, and the panderers all seemed to count us out. But naturally, it was only a matter of time before my generation came into power. Now, as one of the more articulate voices of American youth, I would like to share my vision for our collective future. Also, I didn’t want to leave anyone who may be hooked on my brilliant creative works hanging…for too long. So, here’s my wish list for a better world. I’ve organized my thoughts on the topics of (1)Healthcare/Public Assistance, (2)Education/Higher Learning, (3)Business/Labor, (4) Energy/Environment, (5)Food/Agriculture, (6) Domestic Policy/Homeland Security, (7) Foreign Policy/International Security, (8) Activism/Civil Service by using a 5 step formula for success; 1.Put people and/or living things first, 2.Maintain high moral and ethical standards, 3. Seek out sustainability and longevity, 4.Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity, and 5. Compare and contrast with similar programs or objectives of the past and from abroad.

Home is where the heart is. But, in the middle of an economic crisis fueled by a collapsing housing market in which thousands are losing their homes, and millions couldn’t afford one in the first place, it would seem our nation is somewhat heartless. When Michelle Obama came to Wisconsin just before the primary last February, she made a comment about being really proud for the first time in her adult life. Critics, especially the Republicans jumped on the opportunity to label the future first lady as “unpatriotic” and “foreign”. But, as a young African-American female, with a foreign-sounding name, I knew exactly what she was talking about.

I have always been talented and gifted, but I often struggled to earn up to my potential academically, coming from a dysfunctional, single-parent home, and being forced to move around and work as much as possible during my critical high school years. My country’s educational system with its standardized testing, ever increasing homework, and wealth disparities seemed perfectly fine to let such talent and intelligence as mine go to waste. My country’s higher education seemed perfectly fine to deny an independent young adult such as my self a higher education by making it too unaffordable, and by requiring me to use my parent’s income until the age of 24 as a basis for financial aide. My mother wouldn’t so much as tell me about her finances, let alone fill out a financial aide form or college enrollment application on my behalf. My mother’s lack of concern for me and my future was the main reason I first left home at 14, and permanently at age 15. On the day I turned 18, just five days before my high school graduation, I set out on my own with little more than the clothes on my back and the things I could fit into my car. I got a full-time job at the hospital I’d been working at part-time while in school, and waited for cheap apartments and studios to open up when UW-Madison students change address for the new school year in August. Without a cosigner and with no credit history, I found only one apartment that would rent to me, but I had to share a bathroom and pay $40/month in parking for a small, but furnished studio.

All my jobs have been either in restaurant service, secretarial/customer service, or healthcare service, partially because I believe that in order to serve God, I must serve God’s people. But, sometimes in return for my services, I’ve been either harassed or discriminated against by coworkers and/or management. Without parents to run home to, I’ve had to keep my job at all costs. But, as an adult, I’ve found that the harder you work, the less money you make, and the less power and control you have. Once, after being sexually harassed by a night shift manager at around 3 o’clock in the morning who threatened to keep me confined in my housekeeping closet, I was let go of. That’s when I had my first experiences with unemployment insurance. I was dumbfounded and disappointed that if you quit a job for any number of good reasons, you do not qualify, AND if you were fired for misconduct you do not qualify. So, you have to be let go of having done nothing wrong in order to qualify for benefits that are 75% of what you USED to make like a year and a half ago!

Throughout my uphill battle to support myself, I’ve had to go from job to job and home to home. My 2nd studio wasn’t furnished, and I slept on a floor palette for a year at that apartment, as well as for a year at the next studio. Whenever car troubles came, there were never any savings or emergency funds. So, eventually, I applied for a small car loan and 1 credit card at my credit union. Pre-approved credit card offers started coming in non-stop. After a few years of independence, working 1 or 2 jobs just to not have any furniture or savings, I began to take and use the credit cards. By the time I moved into my fourth and current 1 bedroom, I already had at least a dozen credit cards and department store cards. Finally, I was able to buy furniture and have company over at my place. I spent a lot on credit for birthdays and Christmases, trying to buy my dysfunctional family’s love and respect. Gradually, I needed credit more and more for my own basics, to pay bills, to pay each other, and for gas and gas related inflation.

I went to visit my dad once, and for practically no reason, he brutally attacked me. I was off my nursing assistant/monitor watcher job for 5 days, and not only did no one come to comfort me, but my mother who’d always railed against my dad suddenly came to his defense and told me she was glad to see me get “what I deserved”. She herself had attacked me one time too many, and suffered the consequences, but sought revenge or at least her own victimhood ever since. This happened in 2005 and it was another year with no birthday celebration planned for me. So, I bought a new car as a gift/celebration to my self. Within a matter of days of the purchase, someone had run into my parked car, and the repair cost me $350. Then it seemed like every other month, something was happening to my car, and one time there was a horrible golf ball sized hail storm that my insurance didn’t cover. Eventually, my insurance payments became more expensive than the car note. I fell behind on all my bills, and I had bill collectors calling me from 8am to 9pm, Sunday thru Saturday, holidays included. I had people in India scolding me about my responsibilities and faults. Then, I tried the Quixtar (Amway) multi-level marketing business plan, hoping to become an entrepreneur, and get out of debt. But, I left the program worse off because I was pressured to buy and ship expensive products, and I was spending on business trips and expenses without selling and making a profit.

I decided to file bankruptcy because I knew that the credit industry never intended to let me get out of debt for as long as I live. Also, I knew that an economic crash was eminent, because credit is fake money. I’m not surprised that banks and businesses are also filing bankruptcy these days. The bankruptcy lawyer cost me $1500 that I obviously didn’t have, so I borrowed from payday loan stores to pay the fees. I let go of my new car that was half paid off. It’s been over a year since I filed bankruptcy, but I’m still struggling with payday loans. To make things worse, my used car just broke down, and the metro bus doesn’t get me to my first job and back, let alone to two jobs in one day. In fact, our city of Madison is now reconsidering raising bus fares $0.50 or else they will be cutting existing services and routes. It takes 1½ hours one way during the week, and 2½ hours on weekends to bus from home to work. At night, my last connection stops running altogether. So far, this winter is just as bad if not worse than last winter, both having record snowfall totals.

I work two jobs, but ever since that first credit card and loan, I haven’t been able to live within my means. Recent political sex scandals in the news, like former NY Gov. Elliot Spitzer and his hofessional Ashley Dupree only add insult to injury. Apparently, escorts and prostitutes can make thousands in one night, possibly while enjoying sex. Meanwhile, I have to work two healthcare jobs, often changing poopy diapers, and I don’t make that kind of money in one month. Sure I could be a hoffessional too, but my pride won’t let me. I’d be much prouder if my country had of rewarded me based on merit and effort starting back in middle and high school. My parents were not there to help me succeed, yet I’m smart, talented, and gifted and that should count for something. I taught myself fluent Spanish, and I‘ve been committed to volunteerism for years now. That should count for something in this world. Yet, everyday I have silly power struggles at work that let me know it doesn’t count for much. So many times there have been teachers, supervisors, or persons in authority who openly resented my genius and my ambition. I’ve even been discouraged and/or turned away from totally respectable non-profits like The Literacy Network, The Salvation Army, Deer Park Buddhist Center, and Friends of the Madison Public Library, all by older women who seemed to resent my ambition. Maybe they were too attached to their own tokenism.

I know from personal experience that the “American Dream” is increasingly more difficult to attain these days, especially for young people like me. To get a good education, a good job or small business, healthcare benefits, a car, a home, or a savings account with money in it, one has to take on an un-Godly amount of debt and/or risk. The minimum wage and all wages have been stagnant for decades. Thanks to cheap foreign labor, mostly only service jobs remain. Climbing the corporate ladder is almost like selling your soul to the devil. Student loans are almost impossible to pay off or legally clear out, but they are necessary for almost any good career degree. For a young woman, especially a woman of color, having a baby is almost like committing suicide, because you’re almost guaranteed not to have a life or a lucrative career. Cars are built to break down, and public transportation is unreliable, overcrowded, and increasingly more expensive. Houses and their mortgages are evermore unattainable and unaffordable. The “Dream” is currently a nightmare and something’s got to give.

1. Put people and/or living things first. Grades, test scores, and homework assignments can be so limiting to students who struggle academically. Students who get good grades in school still may not be equipped to deal with the responsibilities and challenges of adult life. All my previous essays have detailed my wishes for reform in healthcare/public assistance, education/higher learning, business/labor, energy/environment, and food/agriculture. If all of those reforms were in place, then my domestic policy/homeland security would naturally follow. All I will add is that the government has to be for the people, by the people, and of the people.

2. Maintain high moral and ethical standards. It’s no wonder crime and vice run rampant in the wealthiest nation in the world when we incentivize money and power over all other people, places and things. Why work hard at a minimum wage job, when you can get fast money the easy way? Starting in early education, we have to teach people that human resources are the most valuable resources there are. Our money says “In God We Trust”, so rich people and powerful people need to live by the principles of Matthew 25, helping “the least of these”, even if they’re not Christian. Most all religions and moral institutions have a similar creed or doctrine that they can refer to…it’s called “charity”.

3. Seek out sustainability and longevity. Right now, the “American Dream” seems like it is terminally ill or something. But, I think that Barack Obama is just what the doctor ordered. With the help of the Congress and the people behind him, I believe a miracle cure may be possible. Obama is a constitutional law expert, so as president, all he has to do is restore or live up to our constitutional laws and rights in order to fix the failed domestic policies of the Bush years and of the past in general. Bush took all our country’s resources, attention, and military and put them into a lost cause called the War in Iraq, supposedly to offer them democracy and freedom. Well, it’s time for democracy and freedom to come home, along with our resources, our attention, and our military. With so many climate change related natural disasters on the rise all over the country, we cannot properly sustain ourselves otherwise.

4. Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. Again, all the previous essays have given specific reform ideas that need not be repeated. But, I will say that so far, Obama’s transition has already sought out the people’s ideas, questions, and concerns, and these are steps in the right direction. The news hasn’t commented much on these successes or on the new found government transparency that Obama’s team bring. But, any real democracy always encourages progress for the people.

5. Compare and contrast with similar programs and objectives of the past and from abroad. America is a unique country with a unique culture. We are such a melting pot of peoples that no matter how many generations we’ve been here for, all of us (including Native Americans) can learn from our ancestor’s original countries and cultures. As an African-American with little or no knowledge of my own ancestry, I tend to look to other peoples, languages, and cultures for a sense of history. But, the point is to learn from other’s successes and failures in how to maintain a civilized society and prosper. The return of the “American Dream” means anyone can lawfully and peacefully live up to their highest potential in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, regardless of their demographics. We have a long way to go before we end rasicm, sexism, hatred, and discrimination. But, Barack Obama being the 44th president of the United States of America is proof that YES WE CAN!

What the Inaguration Means to Me

Nellieyah — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:25:51 EST

I, Nellieyah Ngai, have been wholeheartedly devoted to getting Barack Obama elected president of the United States of America above all other personal ambitions, since the announcement of his candidacy. I was proud to take part in the nation-wide kick-off event March 31, 2007 at a west side Madison residence, and I had the pleasure of coming up with a name for the group we formed from there. We called it “Madison United for Obama”, and I was “elected” president of the group. I was excited and motivated by how organized everything was, by the slogan “Hope, Action, and Change”, and by everyone else’s excitement. But, I did sense some generational clashing, esp. since I was one of the youngest, and I was supposed to be the leader. By the time we had a meeting to plan the June 9th Walk for Change Event, the group was beginning to seem counter-productive to me. Apparently, I caused a stir with my ambitious creativity, particularly when I suggested it would be cool to have a Midwest hip-hop concert fundraiser in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois, with artists like Kanye West, Common, and Talib Kweli. Eventually, I decided to leave the group and concentrate on internet organizing. I work 2 healthcare jobs, one for a state developmental disability care center, the other for a staffing/homecare agency, and I don’t have a personal computer. So, I knew it would be hard to donate money or host events. But, since I’d already been planning to start publishing my writings, and I’ve been told in the past that some works are worth thousands, I formed the groups Voices for Change and Voces para Cambio on barackobama.com and I’ve been cranking out masterpieces ever since.

I swear I must be like the #1 Obama cheerleader. For the duration of the entire election and even now, I’ve been a news vigilante, meticulously scrutinizing all potentially Obama related news content. I was the only one with an official Obama t-shirt on at the first South Madison meeting at the labor temple with an official campaign worker in June of 2007. I think his name was Chris, and he said it seemed like we lay people knew the campaign stuff better than the staff! My writings have taken me countless hours of deep concentration and sustained effort. Most of my blogs were posted in the wee hours of the night, after I’d already worked long and hard doing difficult manual labor. I went to Iowa after a 3rd shift, walked around knocking doors in the rain, then went back to Wisconsin to work another noc shift, on a 20 minute power nap and some crappy tacos from and un-Mexican Mexican restaurant in Iowa (i.e. no food), all as an August 4th birthday present for the future president. I gradually stopped going to Deer Park Buddhist Center every single Sunday, rain or shine, in order to watch “Meet the Press” and other Sunday political favorites. I debated with my family and friends at every opportunity, trying to convince them of the virtues and merit of supporting Obama. Ironically, my oldest brother Kevin, who was super skeptical way back in 2007, wound up getting a PAID job with the campaign this past summer when EVERYBODY was coming out for Obama, meanwhile I’d been slaving away for free the whole damn time!

At my state job, they can force mandatory overtime, at any time, and it’s always a hassle to try and get out of work on short notice. But, I did whatever it took for any major Obama related event, even if it meant barely any sleep, or working a double, or losing pay. I never believed the naysayers, and I always had faith in Obama. This past summer, it felt great canvassing in my own neighborhood on the south side of Madison. But, people were still doubtful he could win underneath a kind of trendy hope. Me, I NEVER doubted Barack Obama would win, even though he and Michelle have publicly disclosed that they themselves at times have. I listened to progressive talk radio almost every day, at every possible opportunity. Even liberals were often negative and pessimistic, but not I. I always called in or just listened in knowing better.

The irony now, is that this inauguration means so much to me, that after non-stop fired up, fearless, contact sport campaigning and volunteering, I’m almost too scared to get my hopes up that I could get to see the fruit of my labor for my self. I did request vacation time for the week, hoping that by some miracle of God I could go to the inauguration. Or, at least I’ll be guaranteed to be off of work and in front of the TV Jan. 20th. The thought alone of being there in person, or meeting the Obamas…is a like happiness I’ve never experienced before, because it’s just too out of this world! It’s like a euphoric bliss only in my wildest dreams.

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change... (5) Food/Agriculture

Nellieyah — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 17:40:20 EST

All living things require food and/or sustenance in order to live. All living things have a 5 stage life cycle of birth, growth, maturity, decline, and death. I believe that food related problems such as malnourishment, hunger, obesity, and eating disorders result from either a failure to respect the nature of living things, or from challenges to one or more stages of the life cycle. Today, we live in a world where seeds are copyrighted, where crops and produce are genetically modified, where animals and livestock are bred and slaughtered in mass, and where the food we eat is often heavily processed, and seldom fresh, organic, and locally generated. Tomorrow, we may face even more problems with drought and flooding, chemical-resistant pests, food and water borne illnesses, and pandemics (like bird flu), unless we change our food policies and culture.

By the time a child is born, chances are that it already suffers from lack of proper nutrition. So many mothers are shopping and eating at grocery stores and restaurants that are increasingly more expensive, teaming with non-biodegradable plastic packaging, containing foods processed with countless chemicals, additives, preservatives, dyes, sugars, and hormones, coming from places near, but mostly far, that are evermore difficult to track. The chain-store grocery market set-up is so complex and difficult to sustain, that many hard-working people cannot afford to put food on the table and most people cannot afford to compete with Big Agribusiness. Most of our children grow up never experiencing agriculture, farming, or raising animals first hand. By the time we are mature adults, chances are we struggle to eat both healthily AND within our budget. Our health has been in decline in large part due to our unnatural, unsustainable, chemically/mechanically processed diets and/or malnutrition. As we age, lifestyle and diet related diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, cancer, Alzheimer’s/dementia, pulmonary disease, kidney disease, liver disease, and countless others become more prevalent. The waste products and by-products of mass food production and animal farming are killing us softly…through our taste buds.

Big Agribusiness has perfected the art of mass production, mass marketing, and mass distribution. Today, there is a fast food restaurant, a chain grocery store, a convenience store, and a drug store everywhere in America, including the smallest of small towns. Mom and Pop have been displaced and rejected for the long term. But, Big Business has gambled its way into climate change, over-population, a credit crisis, and an energy crisis. Now is the perfect time for a Great Change, and the last thing we need is a Great Recession.

1. Put people and/or living things first. Every seed has potential for the great wonder that is life. Both the seed and the potential are important. It’s like the riddle, “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” means “They came together, and you can’t have one without the other.” Because each seed, each cell, each DNA strand, each atom, could become, well… anything. Life has such great potential and diversity. This is why it is important that we not sow seeds that are potentially too dangerous to reap, especially if only for profit sake. I know it seems like we humans are so powerful, and that we can easily escape the bad consequences of manipulating every seed of life to the fullest. But, who has the keys to eternity? What human being can escape inevitable decline and death? Not even the most life-like artificial intelligence could duplicate the mystery, the beauty, the drama, the adventure that is life. So, since ALL LIVING THINGS require food and/or sustenance in order to live, ALL OF US should take this into account. If a particular diet, crop, farm, or agribusiness causes a species of life, even one considered a pest, to be summarily displaced, eliminated, eradicated, or made extinct, then that diet, or crop, or farm, or agribusiness is not healthy or sustainable. Most people love food. But, food is often the hidden cause of war. It takes land and power to produce food. At anytime, food produced could be food stolen, or damaged, or lost. Popular psychology says that people have a great fear of death. But, I think people have a greater fear of life without food and of life in poverty, or in pain. So, the goal must be to sustain ourselves and thrive in abundance, while practicing the “golden rule”. Does that mean the whole world should go vegan? I strongly doubt it. Supposedly, since some hundreds of thousands of years ago, humans have been hunters/gatherers, using animal bones and such, presumably after having eaten the meat (or at least used the skins or something). So, it is as if using and eating animals is human nature. Certainly, eating and using plants, grasses, herbs, trees, grains, vegetables, and minerals is human nature. But whether the living things be human, plant, or animal etc, we must be much more prudent and altruistic as Americans with our diets, our crops, our farms, and our agribusinesses.

2. Maintain high moral and ethical standards. I was raised Christian and I also take refuge in Buddhism. They both focus on altruism, wisdom, compassion, forgiveness, and the act of turning wrong into right. Some denominations and sects have rigid food restrictions, and others don’t. What they do share in common in terms of sustenance is warning against putting the material over the spiritual. Moral and ethical food is quite a difficult and complex subject. But, I think it’s safe to say that Big Agribusiness as we know it may be going to hell, or at least going through hell, as a result of greed. So-called 3rd world countries like Haiti or Ethiopia have been famished and suffering for years. But now, even average Americans are beginning to worry about the return of bread lines and soup kitchens. It is greed that drives Big Agribusiness to ruthlessly dominate all family farms and local operations. Greed is to blame for most of the inequities, the instabilities, and the un-sustainability with the food business and the food culture of today. We must make eliminating world hunger and malnutrition through non-profit organizations our moral cause. This is an interpretation of “Pro Life” that both liberals AND conservatives, fundamentalists AND free thinkers, traditionistas AND modernistas can agree upon.

3. Seek out sustainability and longevity. Since each individual is bound to seek out their own sustenance, it is only good and fair that they be given the opportunities and resources they need to sustain themselves. Poverty and hunger do not exist because people are too stupid, or too lazy, or too undeserving of a healthy, well-nourished life. Poverty and hunger exist because greed and gluttony do. At birth we should make sure women can breast feed conveniently and without the guilt and spectacle that it has become. We should look at non-biodegradable, toxic chemical laced plastic baby bottles with formula that could have melamine in it like it’s guilty and shocking. We must teach children early on where food comes from, how things grow, and how to care for other people, animals, and living things. As mature adults, we should not support businesses that do more harm than good, especially when we can afford to choose. Our decline in old age can be much more graceful and vibrant if we change our fundamental aversion to nature and our dangerous dependence on man-made/for-profit foods. We can also die in peace better knowing we lived a life of peace and kindness towards others. The death of living things can literally be a positive gain, when we turn waste into fertilizer, or find ways to recycle, reuse, and conserve.

4. Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. Big Agribusiness is a slave master. There used to be real slaves, now there are consumers. If we want our freedom, and if we want healthy food, we’re going to have to build the green revolution with our own hands. Every household should strive to grow or produce something, even if only for a hobby. People could start community gardens, or add green spaces to buildings, roofs, parks, and places that already exist. Reusing, recycling, composting, and conserving have to be taught and practiced as a cultural phenomenon. It will take great historic change to change what we eat, because as the saying goes, “You ARE what you eat”. It will take great volunteerism and pioneer spirit to change who we are.

5. Compare and contrast with similar programs and objectives of the past and from abroad. Non-profit does NOT mean un-profitable. Instead of working in stores and restaurants, or working directly or indirectly for Big Agribusiness, we could generate good jobs by building and expanding non-profit organizations designed to keep people healthy, well-nourished, and actively going-green. Many businesses, especially those that are open-minded, team-oriented, and often foreign, have already begun to mass market eco-friendly products to consumers. The next step is to get people planting and hugging trees. Especially, if they bear fruit.

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change...(4)Energy/Environment

Nellieyah — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 15:55:53 EST

There is a sublime power called energy. It is a force that marks and measures space-time. Einstein said E=mc^2. Energy = mass * speed of light. The speed of light is instant, and mass is variable, like open space. This means energy is variable, depending on the instant manifestation of the mass. According to my dictionary, mass is both - a quantity or aggregate of matter, usually of considerable size, AND the quantity of matter that a body possesses as measured by inertia. So, in one way, mass is measured by how its parts actively make a whole, like the parts of an atom changing to make different substances. In another way, mass is measured by its inactivity or uniform motion unless acted upon by some outside force, like a giant rock called a planet in space. I think Einstein starts his equation with “Energy” because the difference between live, active matter that’s measured by its wholeness and unity, and dead or non-living matter that’s measured by its inertia is the amount of energy the matter requires to be made manifest at the speed of light. Therefore, living things require more energy to live and maintain them selves from instant to instant. Every living cell, every animal, and every human being requires massive amounts of energy to function and survive. But, we human beings are the X factor in the equation. We’ve managed to Xtinct so many species, and cause our body’s cells to cancerously Xtinct them selves, and are only a red button away from our own Xtinction at any moment, all because we’ve failed to actively work towards wholeness and unity for the masses. We’ve become too inert and inactive, and yet we’re massively over-populating the only life-sustaining planet that we know of in the entire universe. If energy = mass * the speed of light, then the better aggregated and unified the parts of a whole, the more powerful their manifestation is multiplied and magnified by the light. If the mass does not reflect and magnify light well, i.e. it’s not well put together and therefore has less vibrant parts, inactive parts, or even dark parts, then this mass of people, places (space-times), or things will have less energy.

1. Put people and/or living things first. Einstein’s theories on energy seem a far cry form today’s use of the word “energy”. Today energy usually refers to either physical stamina, or environmental power. Somehow, since Einstein’s major discoveries, we’ve forgotten what we’ve learned about the fundamentals of life in the universe, while actively pursuing more atomic bombs and dangerous nuclear powers at the same time. We teach physics and chemistry, but we don’t teach peace, and compassion. So, it’s no wonder there’s war for oil, and an economic crisis fueled by high gas prices, under a tyrannical government with conflicts of interest, especially in the oil and arms industries. It’s no wonder the masses of people were not prepared to use their most valuable source of energy in order to prevent the current world crises…their own personal power. We have depended more and more on machines and cheap labor. Now, the environment is a mess, unemployment is going up, America is fighting a 2 front war virtually all alone, and our current power infrastructure is vulnerable and unsustainable. Still, it’s not too late to see the light. Solar power always has and always will sustain us. Solar powered technologies should be bigger than alternative fuels, wind power, hydro power, and fossil fuels combined. Think about it…If some aliens come to earth from outer space, they probably wouldn’t use gases and rocket fuels like we do. They’d probably find a way to harness the light-ray energy of some of the stars located everywhere in space and use it to fuel their space craft. I think when people go solar it will create jobs, expand our exploration of math and science, and improve our relationship with nature and the environment. There’s that Sly and the Family Stone song, “Everybody is a Star”, and I think it’s literally true! We ARE made of stardust, and solar power is the new people power.

2. Maintain high moral and ethical standards. Today is Christmas, and we Christians believe that Jesus is the Son of God. We believe that a bright star led 3 wise men to a remote spot were a messiah was born. The earthly parents who were low-income and turned away from all decent healthcare facilities were forced to give birth among the animals. These stories and images mean a lot to me as I write, because I think putting the Christ back in Christmas means putting the Sun of God back as the light of our lives. Whoever dreamt up this fossil fuel dependency was totally sinful and NOT thinking WWJD. Solar power, sun worship, sun salutation yoga, sun-ripened organic foods, sunshine (with fresh air), sunrooms(in affordable houses), and sunbaths (on affordable vacations) are what the world needs now.

3. Seek out sustainability and longevity. I believe that the Sun of God is eternal. Whereas fossil fuels are long-dead, but once living materials, also known as dino-juice. It seems that since the dinosaurs were ancient, the fossil fuels founding fathers must have thought it would last forever. But, here we are, on the brink of 2009, and the jig is up. We simply can’t go on like this. We already know that “green” is the new “gold”, but we need to concentrate on the gold of the sun because it shines brighter and longer than any precious metal ever could.

4. Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. Hey, I’ve got a bright idea…Why not try solar! Uummm Hhmmm, I smell some new industries cooking. I see big new class rooms and labs, and I hear new factories and offices humming, and I want more money in the bank so bad I can almost taste it! I can even feel the warm glow of the sun shining on all my future affairs, aaahhh!

5. Compare and contrast with similar programs and objectives of the past and from abroad. Sun worship is probably the most ancient form of worship there is. But somewhere along the way in history, mankind felt the need to relegate all sun worship as pagan and blasphemous. To date, modern science is still primarily seeking to manipulate and improve upon nature rather than to worship and revere it. But, what if we could get the best of both worlds? Surely we can use modern science to go green, but when you think about what really makes things green and vibrant…it’s photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is a plant’s way of combining parts into a whole by the power of light.

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change...(3)Business/Labor

Nellieyah — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 16:14:32 EST

They say that idle hands are the devil’s playground. Which is why I believe that busy-ness, or being active and productive is generally good and virtuous. But, maybe the devil is in the details… It seems the word “business” has come to mean “the blind pursuit of profit, regardless of the cost and/or loss to others”. So, maybe the devil’s playground is a bad business. One that’s active and productive for the wrong reasons, or in the wrong way. It is certainly amoral when bottom line profits take higher priority over virtually everything else including labor, the general public, the environment, wild life, debt to earnings ratios, human rights, future generations, and even God and country. A reckless, lawless (i.e. unregulated) industrial revolution has designated entire nations and even continents (such as Africa) as “3rd World Class”, with little or no hope of profit-sharing.

No, I don’t believe that money is the root of all evil. But, I do think the blind pursuit of it at all costs is. Surely, there have been prosperous civilizations and city-states throughout history. But, I imagine they concentrated more on trading something for something else, win/win situations, and social harmony, while the Industrial Revolution seems to trade something for money. So, what is money? Is it a promissory note? Is it legal tender? Who determines the values of the images, the paper, and the coins? Who prints and mints, and protects it? The government does. Yet, the government claims to be neutral to private interests and supportive of free market capitalism, AND anti-communist/anti-socialist. I think that great poverty and disparities exist in the so-called 1st World Class countries like the US, because the government says it’s neutral and fair to private interests, when wealthy private interests (i.e. profitable ones) really have more advantages, than public interests that are more costly, and therefore disadvantaged. The government admits to being supportive of capitalism in theory, but it doesn’t take responsibility for literally subsidizing certain businesses and not others, ultimately corrupting the freedom and fairness of market competition. Still, what really hurts public interests is when the government takes so strong an anti-communist/anti-socialist stance that it becomes anti-common good or anti-social well-being (well-fare).

1. Put people and/or living things first. In order for a business to be legal, licensed, properly registered with the government, and socially acceptable, it should have to demonstrate its willingness to negotiate in good faith with organized labor, the general public, environmental interests, wild life interests, financial regulators/auditors/tax collectors, human rights interests, with the best interests of future generations in mind, with God (or morality) and with national interests. Organized labor will be better quality and ultimately more profitable to the business. The general public will be a satisfied customer base and free word-of-mouth advertising. The environment will sustain and grow the business. Wild life will either benefit, or suffer minimal harm. Financial regulators/auditors/tax collectors will ultimately reward business profits in return fo their own revenues and livelihoods. Humanity will progress in civilization and technology. Future generations will inherit a legacy. God (or morality) will be the Ruler, and national interests will benefit from the powerful resources of business.

2. Maintain high moral and ethical standards. Before there can be profit, there must be survival. Any business that inhibits the natural survival of living people, places, and things is amoral. Native Americans weren’t capitalists like their conquerors, but they survived and thrived for millennia UNTIL they were conquered. Modern day capitalism now finds itself struggling to survive. As a world-wide credit crisis threatens every single economy, bank, business, and livelihood, the logical choice is to return to the ways of Native peoples, respecting and revering the Creator’s works.

3. Seek out sustainability and longevity. Native American’s had technology, but today we may not see it as such, probably because we think of technology as “ever new” and “continually recreated/updated”. Like in the area of electronics and electricity, for example. Sure, electricity and electronics is “ever new” and
”continually recreated/updated”. But, just ask someone who’s survived a natural disaster that knocked the power out; or, someone who can’t afford the costs of electricity/electronics; or, someone who works with hazardous wastes…Our electricity/electronics and fossil fueled lifestyles aren’t always sustainable or long-lived. Still, the Native American’s technology was so sustainable, it was ancient! They adapted to life’s challenges by carefully observing, mimicking, and using the abundant resources of nature. Just as they worshipped the sun, the moon, the stars, and the elements, let us use solar power, and harness our NASA space science capacities to develop sustainable, renewable, earth-friendly lifestyles. Let us use the elements like wind, water, and geothermal to empower ourselves and our technologies. Let us value our human resources so much, that we consider at least 7 generations in our business plans.

4. Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. We could learn a lot from how Native people’s also worshiped nature’s cycles, rhythms, and designs. As we move into a new age, we can save our economy and our planet with a greener economy, and a greener planet. Businesses like newspapers and paper industries that cut down trees can use the internet to educate and organize large-scale tree planting or eco-friendly operations. We can turn inner-city concrete jungles and sky scRAPpErs into green roofs and green spaces, solar panels and hydro channels. We can engineer wind mills as well as new habits and choices. Every kind of business including home interiors, appliances, textiles, cleaning, laundry, furniture, and automotive can all partake in the green revolution and profit from greener revenues. People’s basic day-to-day survival needs will always be in demand, AND people are always willing to work as hard as it takes to survive. So, business and labor can keep thinking in a linear, short-term, dead-end mind set if they want to go broke or stay broke. Or, business and labor can start thinking in a more cyclical, long-term, generational way in order to maximize returns on investments.

5. Compare and contrast with similar programs and objectives of the past and from abroad. Native people’s from all over the world have had age old traditions survive generations, only to be destroyed by the modern monster called Big Business. I think it is uniquely American to revolt against tradition even at the expense of other people, nature, and ultimately profit itself, all in the name of profit. People have always made music. But, it took American capitalism to create an industry big enough to dominate world-wide. Instead of holding a Pow Wow ceremony where everyone joins in a circle, in homemade regalia, dancing to primitive drum beats, we make and sell recordings, played at parties, bars, and clubs, in brand name clothes, dancing to music recordings that require mechanical devices. When people get tired of spending money on recordings, they download or bootleg for cheap or for free. When people get tired of working for recording companies and publishers, they self-publish, or internet post, or blog. When people get tired of the same songs on the radio, or the same channels on TV, or listening to commercials (i.e. business ads), they tune them out, and get more of what they really want. Nature has a way of making bad businesses lose profitability sooner or later. But, mark my words, the arts, crafts, and traditions of Native peoples will only become more valuable and profitable as conventional businesses continue to bankrupt themselves, humanity, the earth, and natural resources.

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change...(2)Education/Higher Learning

Nellieyah — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 23:54:40 EST

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change…(2) Education/Higher LearningMy generation has been the secret ingredient that helped make the historic Barack Obama presidential victory. Throughout the incredibly long, drawn out campaign, the mainstream media never seemed to find the time to give us youngsters credit were credit was due. The pollsters, the pundits, and the panderers all seemed to count us out. But naturally, it was only a matter of time before my generation came into power. Now, as one of the more articulate voices of American youth, I would like to share my vision for our collective future. Also, I didn’t want to leave anyone who may be hooked on my brilliant creative works hanging…for too long. So, here’s my wish list for a better world. I’ve organized my thoughts on the topics of (1)Healthcare/Public Assistance, (2)Education/Higher Learning, (3)Business/Labor, (4) Energy/Environment, (5)Food/Agriculture, (6) Domestic Policy/Homeland Security, (7) Foreign Policy/International Security, (8) Activism/Civil Service by using a 5 step formula for success; 1.Put people and/or living things first, 2.Maintain high moral and ethical standards, 3. Seek out sustainability and longevity, 4.Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity, and 5. Compare and contrast with similar programs or objectives of the past and from abroad.

Learning is the successful synthesis of empirical experience and acquired information. The learning process begins in the womb when the biological brain and sensory organs develop, and the mental person(ality) commonly called “the ego” arises form the consolidation of these physical entities. Conventional wisdom usually has it the other way around, especially those of the “Pro Life” crowd who seem to think that we automatically inherit an ego and/or personality at the time of conception. But, I’ve worked closely with people with developmental disabilities, so I know that the healthier and more fully developed one’s physical being is, the more conscious awareness, self-determination, and emotional being one has. Modern neuroscience is coming around to the notion that mental/emotional illness can be a chemical imbalance in the brain and not just a failure to cope with life’s problems.

For so long now, we’ve had an educational system that invalidates empirical experience and glorifies acquired information. A system where one's physical being takes a back seat to one’s mental ego/personality. When a couple gets pregnant, they tend to worry more about what kind of person(ality) the child will be, rather than start stimulating the child’s developing sense of hearing in the womb by reading to them or offering other educational sensory experiences that the unborn can already physically receive. In early childhood education, teachers are more concerned with getting children to passively absorb information and repeat it back, than if the child is well nourished, healthy, in a safe home, and physically capable of being actively engaged in the learning process. This passive style of learning continues into elementary school, where teachers are more concerned with social conformity than self-expression. By middle school, recess and physical activity begin to decrease dramatically. Once in junior high, questioning conventional wisdom based on one’s own empirical experience is very much discouraged, while standardized testing, information memorization, and passive listening to lectures become key to scholastic success. In high school, this passive learing system is often amplified by the need to prepare a passive (non-unionized) workforce for an industrial/informational economic stystem, and the threat of young adults not constrained or controlled by social conformity (i.e. free thinking).

The result of such a system is an impending Great Depression II. Children of low-income families often struggle with primary education and drop out of high school because their most basic physical needs are ignored by the system. Students (like me) who are curious learners, or who question the status quo and/or the teacher’s authority on a subject are often resented and not rewarded for their desire to learn and understand things as deeply as possible. High school and college may prepare you for a job, or a societal role (personality), but they seldom prepare you to be a healthy, well-rounded BEING, mind, body, and soul – inside and out. Being the passive sheep we’ve been taught to be, we have allowed ourselves to live the grand paradox of being both the wealthiest and most powerful nation with some of the least healthiest people on the planet. We often fail to properly educate our youth and people in general about the most basic survival skills, and as a result we have a nation of people who don’t know where their food comes from, and couldn’t grow it if it were not processed for them. A nation that suffers from the serious consequences of high teen pregnancy and STD rates, but that is afraid to teach human sexuality, “Lest it encourage irresponsible sexual behavior”. A nation that claims to be the greatest democracy in the world, but reserves the education and preparation it takes to be a civil servant or politician for the elite classes mostly made up of lawyers and business people. A nation that is supposedly proud to be the most ethnically diverse, but falls short of educating the people about the great variety of other cultures, religions, languages, peoples, lands, and histories. A nation that has not only abandoned the traditional production of food, but the production of just about any product or produce the greedy elites can outsource to cheap, non-unionized labor. Rampant poverty, crime, mental/emotional illness, poor health, poor life style choices, excessive consumption and waste, pollution, animal extinction, dangerous artificial means of survival, and ignorance are the undesirable results of our anti-learning/every child might as well be left behind education system.

1. Put people and/or living things first. Instead of treating people like objects to be manipulated or used, and abusing/neglecting the natural world, we can choose to put them first in our priorities. This is a genuine “Pro Life” stance. *Unborn children (and their parents) should have universal healthcare that includes the education of both the mother and the fetus. It is not enough to have prenatal medical care as we know it today. If sex education is too risky for students, then at least we can educate those who are already pregnant and hence sexually active, about the basics of human sexuality, pregnancy/childbirth, childcare, hygiene, nutrition, and basic problem solving/interpersonal skills in either a private medical setting or in classes open to the public, most likely held at community clinics. *Teach early childhood education with a value system that honors “the Golden Rule”, active learning, and teamwork based on the natural interdependence of living things. *Teach health education in elementary school; don’t wait until middle or high school to give people the tools they need to live a healthy lifestyle. *Maintain physical activity as a part of every class, at every level, not just at recess, in gym class, or for the really young. I believe that disorders like ADHD are on the rise because our classes lack the physical activity and exercise needed to stay healthy, reduce stress, and fully engage a person’s being. Teacher’s parents, school boards, government officials and most importantly STUDENTS need to get innovative at how to learn with physical activity in every subject from language and the arts, to science and math. Not everyone learns well from sitting in lectures or reading texts, or taking tests. Nature requires our active participation for our survival, not grades, titles, diplomas, or degrees. *Testing should be offered in a variety of ways and not just written. Real life requires critical thinking, problem solving, interpersonal skills, teamwork, goal setting, and deep analysis more often than not. Again, everybody, especially students and education administrators need to get creative about testing. I can envision a successful uniting of both more physical activity AND more realistic learning evaluation. For example, A high school science teacher could give a team assignment to illustrate a scientific principle or lesson in 3D (as science projects often do), but instead of having each team member specialize, have each one contribute to and be ready for evaluation on each part of the process. Instead of just having the project on display or presented to the class, they could have a group discussion and/or debate of the relevant issues relating to it. Instead of just taking a science test on the subject, again a team oriented discussion group can test each other. Students who do well with the subject could earn extra credit by helping teach those with more difficulty. This will better prepare our workforce for teamwork/critical thinking, our business world for more ethical concerns, and our society for greater prosperity. *Offer students, especially those at the high school and college levels more apprenticeship opportunities and trade skills.

2. Maintain high moral and ethical standards. It is amoral to educate based on property taxes, because of the inherent iniquities in wealth. Public education should be equally good for all students. So, the government and the people need to figure out how to fund schools better. Just as successful students should be prepared to help less successful students, wealthy neighborhoods should be prepared to help the less fortunate. Changing tax codes are only a part of the solution because we can have well–educated wealthy people literally help those in need. Schools/districts with resources could have their administrators, teachers, parents and students liaison with under-funded schools through a variety of programs. Once the well-off can literally empathize with and understand those not as well off, they can share more and do more to change it. Also, the less resourceful schools can learn from the better ones, and maybe imitate their programs as best they can within their own budget.

3. Seek out sustainability and longevity. When we stop looking at education as a one-sided, passive institution, we can create better, longer-lasting programs based on interdependent and physically active principles. Right now, many schools are cutting back and even closing because of our “every man for him self” approach to education, the economy, and popular culture. There is strength in numbers, and activism is the subject least taught in all levels of education, up to and including the best universities.

4. Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. Creativity is by definition a kind of activism. Instead of teaching children and people in general how to be used by the economy or by society, we need to teach how they can use the economy and society to better themselves, and live their goals and dreams. Daydreaming in class has been a “no-no”, but we need to keep saying “Yes we can!” Imagination and innovation is what separates our human species from the rest of creation in such a profound way. No one can scientifically prove there is a God, but our collective imagination of such an entity is called “religion”. Schools, teachers and parents should encourage meaningful, well-guided creativity and open-mindedness in every way. This is how we can catch up to other nations in science and math, and work toward saving the planet form our ignorant, misguided destruction of it. We can use our capacities both for technology and new industries, as well as for more traditional arts, crafts, and trades that are being lost to us younger generations. We desperately need to get back to making things in the USA.

5. Compare and contrast with similar programs and objectives of the past and from abroad. While America’s educational system is failing us in critical areas such as math and science, other nations in Asia, Europe, and abroad are excelling in these areas. Parents are more strict about studies, leisure time, and recreation. Testing is more vigorous and/or effective in evaluating students. Also, education is more highly valued in general. If our priorities are mostly caught up in fame, fortune, and trivial pursuits, it’s no wonder we’re not benefiting form our 1st world status as much as we could. Learning is not only fun, it is necessary for survival and beyond.

If I Ruled the World, I Would Change... (1)Healthcare/Public Assistance

Nellieyah — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:07:49 EST

We all know that life is precious or at least highly valuable to everyone. But ironically, the people who most publicly claim to be “Pro Life” are usually the same people who loathe universal healthcare, entitlement programs, “welfare states”, “tax and spend (on public programs) Democrats”, “Big government and anything that doesn’t “conserve” all the privilege and opportunity for their own(ership). It seems as though only their life is precious. They’re against both the abortion of an unwanted child AND government assistance to poor families. They’re against both high quality education for low-income students AND high quality jobs for adults. They’re even against inexpensive healthcare and social services for the elderly and the dying, who naturally lose the ability to generate income AND they are against the working/middle classes building wealth, savings, equity, and retirement funds, all at the same time.

The fundamental hypocrisy of the neo-conservative agenda is that they rationalize the expendability of the lives of so many, while faithfully conserving the rights to life for so few. A pregnant woman of an unwanted child is supposed to not exist in her own right by wanting the child anyway. A low-income woman who wants affordable birth control and/or protection from STDs is supposed to either make more money or suffer the consequences of having no control over her own life, and/or being needlessly exposed to serious illness and even death. According to the neo-conservative view, a welfare mother should blame herself for losing out in a capitalist society based on impersonal corporations. The children of low-income (and increasingly middle-income) families should blame themselves for being born, therefore keeping their parents distracted from running the corporate American rat race to the bottom for a crumb or two of the American pie. If you live in a poor neighborhood, where property taxes cannot provide for quality public schools, then that’s your fault students. If sweatshop slave wage labor or illegal immigrant labor can replace you so that corporate giants can enjoy their massively under-taxed profits without you, then so be it. It’s your own damn fault for not being able to afford a better education, for not having the business capital or investment opportunities, and for not ruthlessly dominating your trade. When you ask a neo-conservative about the consequences of these “you’re on your own” policies, such as drug and alcohol abuse, child/spouse abuse, poverty, hunger, crime, incarceration, and premature death, they take no responsibility. Nor do they have any sympathy or compassion. In this kind of ownership society, them that’s got, shall have, them that’s not, shall lose.

1. Put people and/or living things first. Healthcare and public assistance for those in need should be a birthright for every human being, not a capitalist privilege for the few, according to the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is disgraceful how many millions of Americans, many of them children, do not have healthcare coverage. It is shameful how we expect women with children to work full time, provide or purchase child care, educate her children, and afford the cost of living in a consumer driven capitalist economy. What’s even worse is that so many of the jobs left in America today are service jobs related to healthcare. As a healthcare worker myself, I have a long list of changes that could be made to our healthcare system. *Start with natural and holistic medicines and disciplines, and then add technology and specializations as needed – not as they become profitable. *Make healthcare a non-profit industry, and it will probably become more profitable that way. With the improvement in quality and the new access granted, demand will be steady and predictable. Right now, healthcare is so expensive and so limited that a once extremely profitable enterprise is now bankrupting businesses, local and state governments. This could be a national security threat in the event of a pandemic. *Legalize and normalize in-home healthcare for physicians and healthcare professionals. Families should have the right to have babies at home, where it is cheap, comfortable, and not full of hospital germs. Sick people, especially children and the elderly, should not have to travel far or put up with insurance company bureaucracy in their time of need. Retirement and dying should be in the comfort and privacy of one’s home, with generations of family and friends close by and supportive until the end. No one should have to give up a paid for house, valuable land, their privacy, and their freedom just to live in the nightmares called nursing homes if they don’t want to. We need more options for assisted living and in-between 100% at-home/independent living and institutionalized dying. *Focus on prevention, and stop profiting on disease. *Legalize and normalize natural and herbal medicine (including marijuana), and make the pharmaceutical industry non-profit. Again, they will probably profit more when their products are safer and truly needed, not just placebos rushed to market for a quick buck. Supposedly, the FDA doesn’t recommend or approve natural medicines and herbs because they’re not safe and “controlled” enough. But, we all know that’s a damn lie. It’s just been so profitable to make people buy drugs rather than to educate them about the benefits of home remedies, renewable, un-patentable herbs, or simply prevent/cure an illness altogether. Still, they can do well with a holistic approach because medicine is the probably the second oldest profession next to prostitution (You know we had to cure unwanted diseases and pregnancies after the first). *Educate and train healthcare professionals in a more comprehensive and integrated way. A physician should have the social etiquette and compassion of a nurse. A nurse should have the respect and authority of a doctor. A nurse’s aid (like myself) should be paid based on their significant effect on the health of the patient. I’ve worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in just about every kind of healthcare environment, including the hospital, nursing-home, assisted living, home care, and currently at a state institution for the developmentally disabled. Over the years, it has been sometimes annoying, and sometimes outright disturbing to bust my butt bathing, feeding, dressing, walking, toileting, comforting, counseling, repositioning, and answering whenever called at the push of a button, then have a nurse push a pill and get all the authority over the cares and credit for success. The nurse may feel the same way toward the doctor, and the doctor the same toward the insurance company, the government, or the pharmaceutical company.

2. Maintain high moral and ethical standards. Because our healthcare is for profit, it’s not very caring or healthy at all. Healthcare giants, Big Pharma, and insurance companies need to ask themselves which master they will serve, money or God? If they continue to say “money”, don’t worry because if and when the plague hits, it will get them too. If they say “God”, or “humanity” or “anything greater than me” then we may be able to reform the system in the nick of time. It is amoral to deny people their most basic right, the right to life, based on their inability to pay. Especially when the care or treatment they need actually costs less than the greedy bastards over-inflate it to be. People have been around for millennia, and ancient Egyptians could probably mummify a cat better than we can treat a common cold. The Chinese, among others, have been able to have both modern Western medicine and traditional Chinese medicine co-exist for some time now. Let’s stop making excuses and do the right thing.

3. Seek out sustainability and longevity. One of the big consequences of Big Pharma is the polluting of our waters with toxic pharmaceuticals. This is causing new and difficult to detect health problems, like drug resistant viruses and birth defects. We have to think of the long-tern consequences of our lifestyles and habits. Prescription drug abuse and trafficking is another problem on the rise. We need to be more careful about what unnatural, addictive substances we make so readily available to put into our bodies. This past year alone, some Big Pharma companies have had to recall or stop producing drugs that do more harm than good. We live in a so-called 1st world country with the most overeating and under-eating disorders. We have a huge industry based on dieting and cosmetics, but it’s costing us Americans, especially young women invaluable self-esteem and confidence. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma are on the rise, and everybody knows somebody who’s died of cancer. Worst of all, our economy is broken, and for-profit, privatized healthcare is a big part of what broke it. Natural, holistic medicine is sustainable. Community based and home based healthcare is more affordable, higher quality, and most effective. It’s hard to heal one’s immune system and thrive, as well as to exercise, eat healthy, and socialize in most of today’s healthcare facilities. Many of these facilities seem too prison-like to me. We should only use and market drugs that can actually prevent or cure, or at least manage illness without doing more harm than good. We should better educate both the general public and healthcare professionals in a holistic, comprehensive, integrated science way.

4. Encourage creativity, innovation, and ingenuity. We need to have people using as many home preventions and home remedies as possible. This means using our ability to begin to “make things” in America again (Oooohhh, how taboo!). Garlic, apple-cider vinegar, herbal tea, lemon juice, cranberries, tomatoes, oranges, honey, countless herbs and other natural products are all things we can grow or handle easily at home. If we use more natural plant based medicines, it will really help our environment too. Instead of clearing the Amazon and other wild places for timber and resources, we can preserve these natural wonders in order to learn from the natural medicines there. As for a pandemic, that would require plenty of community organizing in whatever health crisis plan we make. So, we should get innovative with how to get healthcare back into local community clinics and in-home.

5. Compare and contrast with similar programs and objectives of the past and from abroad. I took a serious interest in nursing early on in middle school. By 9th grade I thought I wanted to specialize in becoming a mid-wife, and for a career project I did research on it. I found out that it wasn’t until male doctors started delivering babies and banning women from doing so that we had the foundations of our modern healthcare system. These male doctors did everything they could to criminalize and invalidate natural, traditional practices, opting for more dangerous man-made, drug and surgical oriented treatments, and forcing women to give birth in hospitals as opposed to at home. Even today, America has the highest rate of C-section births, and use of other unnatural drugs and processes (like forceps). When I saw Michael Moore’s film “Sicko” I was shocked and angry at how good people in places like France, Great Britain, Canada, and even Cuba have it compared to us. One of the most enviable shockers was that women in France have 6 months PAID maternity leave and up to 6 more months of unpaid but guaranteed EMPLOYMENT leave. Is the first year of a French child’s life anymore valuable than that of an American’s? How does the employer deal with the loss and re-entry of a worker? Even dads get time off in some places. It made me feel like a slave to watch this. Until we get universal healthcare, you could work hard all your life, never have quality healthcare, or quality time with your family, money saved up for retirement or anything else, for that matter, like an education and a better life for your kids. Still, at any time, you are just one accident or illness, or childbirth away from thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical debt. One of the British government run physicians was the equivalent of a millionaire, or at least doing very well, AND he was happy with his job. Job satisfaction is so low for most of the healthcare workers I’ve worked with. Even 3rd world, embargoed to smithereens Cuba has better services than we do. It just goes to show that people don’t have to blame themselves or their children for being human, getting sick, and needing healthcare.

Black Hole

Nellieyah — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:22:55 EST

The Bush legacy is a black hole that not even light can escape. Like a vacuum sucking up all the essence of the world into an infinitesimally small compact nothing, forcing every free floating body to cave in to an insatiable appetite. The Bush legacy is a black hole that forces everything that matters to implode into anti-matter. A black hole that progress cannot pass by without being dragged backward in time and space. The Bush legacy is a black hole that depends on negativity and darkness to maintain itself. An anomaly in a universe of substance and procreative life forms. Obama is a shining star that illuminates the heavens for the earth. Obama is a phoenix sun rising from the ashes. Obama is a supernova big bang explosion that creates new beginnings for our time.

Nourishment

Nellieyah — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:56:01 EST

They say the best way to a man's heart is through his stomach. And that you are what you eat. So, does that mean that malnourished people are bad by nature? It seems to me there's a terrible war on providing nourishment. It starts with an economy and a culture that taxes and penalizes mother's milk. Then comes a childish love of junk food. Next is the adolescent rebellion against good health practices. Then comes a young adult's carelessness and irresponsibility. Then a demanding adult and commanding authority figure. Then a disgruntled old has-been. Why can't we just focus on fighting malnourishment? It's easy, just provide nourishment. Just give people the rights and resources they need to sustain themselves. And, the most valuable resource of all is education, mental nourishment.

Behind Closed Doors

Nellieyah — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:00:59 EST

When one door closes, another door opens. Opportunity knocks, are we there yet? Are we prepared for what's next? If we cross the threshold, is it safe? Is it foolish to be so ambitious? Or is this the best thing we've ever known? It feels like shattering a house of mirrors, glass ceiling and all. It feels like breaking free. It feels good, yeah. It feels good. Just having the choice. The free will. And though it may seem dangerous to challenge barriers and obstacles, in the end law and order is meant to uphold our freedom. Uhhmmm hhhmmm. Our life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 13 of 13

Nellieyah — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 02:19:40 EDT

XIII. THE USE OF SPIES1. Sun Tzu said: Raising a host of a hundred thousand men and marching them great distances entails heavy loss on the people and a drain on the resources of the State. The daily expenditure will amount to a thousand ounces of silver. There will be commotion at home and abroad, and men will drop down exhausted on the highways. As many as seven hundred thousand families will be impeded in their labor.This sounds like exactly what the war in Iraq has been like. Dick and Dubya obviously could care less about the damage they’ve done. But, what’s really shameful is that McCain’t aint about to change course either. 2. Hostile armies may face each other for years, striving for the victory which is decided in a single day. This being so, to remain in ignorance of the enemy's condition simply because one grudges the outlay of a hundred ounces of silver in honors and emoluments, is the height of inhumanity.The mainstream media has never spoken to this in earnest, but most liberals already know that Bush’s policies are inhumane. Even worse, there has been no oil or oil revenues to come from it. Now, after nearly 2 years of campaigning, Barack Obama will have victory decided in a single day. John McCain became inhumane when he used the same dirty politics, lies and smears that were used against him against the most inpirational leader of our time. . One who acts thus is no leader of men, no present help to his sovereign, no master of victory.We all know that Dick and Dubya ain’t no good, but it’s the McCain-Palin supporters who need to be enlightened. Just like Bush had almost half the country in 2000 and 2004, almost half of the country is still voting against their own best interest when they vote for McCain. I think this is because they don’t even know themselves, they only know what they were told to believe about themselves. They don’t know American history, so they cannot seriously ponder America’s future. They thrive on an “us vs. them” attitude, and there is never a shortage of “them”. When Barack Obama wins, low-information voters may finally become inquisitive and seek to become better informed. Or, with the help of their divisive candidates, they could become more hateful and divisive than ever.4. Thus, what enables the wise sovereign and the good general to strike and conquer, and achieve things beyond 5. Now this foreknowledge cannot be elicited from spirits; it cannot be obtained inductively from experience, nor by any deductive calculation. The reach of ordinary men, is foreknowledge.Last chapter I joked about being the campaign’s resident philosopher/psychic/astrologer. In reality, I have no magic powers, just common sense and wisdom. But, in a world full of dangerous ignoramuses, common sense is not so common. My motto on my barackobama.com profile is “knowledge is power” because I know that the difference between a free person and a slave is education. 6. Knowledge of the enemy's dispositions can only be obtained from other men.So, I spend a lot of time reading and listening to the news. I used to be almost anti-TV and anti-news because they’re generally so anti-educational. But, for this Obama campaign, I’ve been a news junkie, reading print, watching the mrning, afternoon, evening and latenight newscasts, and listening to talk radio EVERY SINGLE DAY! Now, my family, friends and co-workers check with me if they need the latest scoop on Obama. 7. Hence the use of spies, of whom there are five classes: (1) Local spies; (2) inward spies; (3) converted spies;(4) doomed spies; (5) surviving spies.I may not be a spy, but it with all the cool spy movies out there, it sure sounds like fun… Until you get outed by your own damn government for telling the truth about Iraq’s non-existent WMD. I can’t wait for the Valerie Plame movie to come to Lifetime. I might have to borrow somebody’s cable TV! 8. When these five kinds of spy are all at work, none can discover the secret system. This is called "divine manipulation of the threads." It is the sovereign's most precious faculty.Obviously, the Bush administration doesn’t respect the intelligence community or we wouldn’t be in Iraq now. But, I wonder if the Republicans are up to something with this ex-democratic speech writer Wendy Button? I mean, come on, whose last name is Button? Seriously, I read her op-ed article about why she’s leaving the Democratic Party and the Obama campaign, and it insults my intelligence. She says she looks forward to being unemployed, but that’s probably because she’s on some top secret payroll somewhere. Did she figure out the campaign from the inside? Dig up some dirt she’s holding on to? Whatever it is, she can’t be serious that Obama’s campaign is insulting to working people, or that criticism of a female candidate is inherently sexist. 9. Having local spies means employing the services of the inhabitants of a district.This campaign will need all the eyes and ears it can get at the polls this election day.10. Having inward spies, making use of officials of the enemy.Wendy Button, perhaps? Obama people should talk to whichever McCain staffer has the most beef with Sarah Palin, and “make him an offer he can’t refuse.” 11. Having converted spies, getting hold of the enemy's spies and using them for our own purposes.Wendy Button, maybe? I mean, why would she want to denounce the Obama campaign when he’s on the verge of winning? Freelance jobs are drying up as print media dwindles down. Wendy, if you’re out there, think about it. 12. Having doomed spies, doing certain things openly for purposes of deception, and allowing our spies to know of them and report them to the enemy.Sarah Palin would be a great help… With another ethics investigation waiting for her back home, and McCain about to lose in just a few days, AND her desire to go “rogue” and defend her reputation, she’d make a great doomed spy. 13. Surviving spies, finally, are those who bring back news from the enemy's camp.Collin Powel may not have been a spy, but it sure was nice to hear the news he brought back from the enemy’s camp! There are probably 5 more old guard, be they liberal or conservative waiting for the opportunity to tell it like it is.14. Hence it is that which none in the whole army are more intimate relations to be maintained than with spies. None should be more liberally rewarded. In no other business should greater secrecy be preserved.The problem with the Bush administration is that they are too secret, when the public has a right to know, and too informative when the intelligence is wrong. 15. Spies cannot be usefully employed without a certain intuitive sagacity.Hey, maybe I could still be Special Agent Nellieyah after all. I’ll probably have to change my name to something like Wendi Bottun though. 16. They cannot be properly managed without benevolence and straightforwardness.President Barack Obama will have a much better relationship with the intelligence community, especially with Vice President Joe Biden at his side. Together, they may actually capture Bin Laden, and get to the facts about 9/11 and other recent terrorists attacks. They certainly won’t lie, or have the Secretary of State scare the crap out of the UN, or cover up anything that doesn’t add up. 17. Without subtle ingenuity of mind, one cannot make certain of the truth of their reports.Recently, I saw the movie “W.” and I was glad to have it confirmed that Bush and Cheney totally lied about the need to go to war with Iraq. People from the intelligence community were saying otherwise, and I hope that we the people get some official proof of what all happened in the coming Obama administration. 18. Be subtle! be subtle! and use your spies for every kind of business.Someone needs to be spying on Karl Rove, and then make up an FBI criminal profile. What does eat? Where does he shop? What’s his love life like? What scares him? What turns him on? What makes him tick? Rove is a white collar criminal, but of the most dangerous sort. He’s spends so much time digging up dirt on his political opponents, I wonder what would happen if the tables were turned? 19. If a secret piece of news is divulged by a spy before the time is ripe, he must be put to death together with the man to whom the secret was told.Could this have anything to do with how Dick Cheney’s hunting buddy got shot in the face, but it wasn’t national news until after the evidence was cleaned up and the details were murky?20. Whether the object be to crush an army, to storm a city, or to assassinate an individual, it is always necessary to begin by finding out the names of the attendants, the aides-de-camp, and door-keepers and sentries of the general in command. Our spies must be commissioned to ascertain these.Well, I hope the Secret Service is doing their job, and not being partial to politics. I was not pleased when the people from McCain/Palin rallies who said hateful and threatening things seemed to have gotten away with it. But, I trust that God will protect those who need it, and that once Bush is out of office, we can generally trust all of our government institutions better. 21. The enemy's spies who have come to spy on us must be sought out, tempted with bribes, led away and comfortably housed. Thus they will become converted spies and available for our service.Five is a good number to start with. Too much more than that, and there’s bound to be a leak. I wonder if anybody working for the tabloids is looking for a raise? 22. It is through the information brought by the converted spy that we are able to acquire and employ local and inward spies.Remember Ahmed Chalabi and how Bush used him to invade Iraq? Well, when Obama-Biden take office, the need for spies will increase, in order to safely bring our troops home and end the war in Iraq. By now, Iraqis really don’t trust us, so their cooperation will have to come from those whom they deem trustworthy. 23. It is owing to his information, again, that we can cause the doomed spy to carry false tidings to the enemy.As for the campaign, many within the McCain camp know they’re doomed. So, some may be willing to join the winning team, especially if they’re offered protection. 24. Lastly, it is by his information that the surviving spy can be used on appointed occasions.After watching the movie “W.” it was clear that even Bush senior, former head of the CIA, was disappointed in Dubya. Though I doubt that Bush the elder would ever tarnish his own name/legacy, I’m sure there are more old guard who never liked Dubya/Cheney and what they’ve done to our country. 25. The end and aim of spying in all its five varieties is knowledge of the enemy; and this knowledge can only be derived, in the first instance, from the converted spy. Hence it is essential that the converted spy be treated with the utmost liberality.Sounds like good old fashioned bipartisan government! Where you keep your friends close, and your frenemies closer. I predict that in the 2012 race, the Democrats will know the opponents so much better than they know them selves, that they can’t help but continue the presidency for 4 more years.26. Of old, the rise of the Yin dynasty was due to I Chih who had served under the Hsia. Likewise, the rise of the Chou dynasty was due to Lu Ya who had served under the Yin.Wu Tang! Wu Tang! Wu Tang Clan aint nuttin to f*%$ wit! 27. Hence it is only the enlightened ruler and the wise general who will use the highest intelligence of the army for purposes of spying and thereby they achieve great results. Spies are a most important element in water, because on them depends an army's ability to move.Well now, this brings us to the end of Sun Tzu’s Art of War. I hope my commentary has been enlightening and encouraging. In a matter of days, we shall gloat in the victory of the Obama-Biden win. But, once the parties have ended, and the cheers have died down, we must continue to fight the peace of the American pie we all deserve. Love, Nellieyah

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 12 of 13

Nellieyah — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 02:48:43 EDT

XII. THE ATTACK BY FIRE1. Sun Tzu said: There are five ways of attacking with fire. The first is to burn soldiers in their camp;the second is to burn stores; the third is to burn baggage trains; the fourth is to burn arsenals and magazines; the fifth is to hurl dropping fire amongst the enemy.Ahhh, yes…It seems the Rovian slash-n-burn, scorched earth politics have finally met their match. McCain’s campaign is sssooooo burnt up! Republican soldiers who can’t take the heat are defecting left and right, or at least left. Whatever media “base” McCain had left in storage went up in smoke with the McCain campaign worker Ashley Todd’s hoax. Now, even Sarah Palin is smoldering after her very expensive baggage was checked. Then there’s McCain’s arsenal of Bush bashing that was charred on arrival. Still, the biggest bomb is yet to be dropped, because if you think us Obama supporters were “fired up and ready to go” all during this ridiculously long campaign, then just wait to see the fireworks when it’s finally over! 2. In order to carry out an attack, we must have means available. The material for raising fire should always be kept in readiness.Does $150 million dollars qualify as “means”? If so, then Obama’s campaign is fired up and ready to go! Maybe that’s why McCain ever so vainly tried to put it out with wild accusations of Watergate-style corruption and unfair and/or unlawful advantages. My, oh my how the tables have turned. 3. There is a proper season for making attacks with fire, and special days for starting a conflagration.4. The proper season is when the weather is very dry; the special days are those when the moon is in the constellations of the Sieve, the Wall, the Wing or the Cross-bar; for these four are all days of rising wind.Looks like McCain’s support is drying up like water in the dessert. But after the election, he himself may have hard time staying dry. If McCain starts drinking heavily, he can’t expect too much help from Cindy, despite the fact that she’s fought addiction first hand…Problem is, she probably “won’t know” that her spouse has a problem. 5. In attacking with fire, one should be prepared to meet five possible developments:6. (1) When fire breaks out inside to enemy's camp, respond at once with an attack from without.It’s ironic how up until the DNC, the Democrats were infighting, but have in the end strongly united and become quite a force to be reckoned with. Now, it’s the Republican party’s house that’s on fire. Obama doesn’t have to do much about it either, because thanks to Bush’s failures of domestic policy, there probably aren’t any fire fighters available to put it out. 7. (2) If there is an outbreak of fire, but the enemy's soldiers remain quiet, bide your time and do not attack.Everyday more and more conservatives are speaking from their conscience, from their heart, and from their gut. So, time is on our side, because McCain doesn’t have any strategy to deal with this. His divisive politics are only making matters worse. Some say neo-cons are now willing to concede their loss in this race, and are now focusing on Sarah Palin in 2012. But, I know better. If that woman can’t hold her own, and give a real news conference for the most critical election in recent and perhaps all of American history, she can’t win. Four years is long time to NOT speak to the public about how you wish to serve them. 8. (3) When the force of the flames has reached its height, follow it up with an attack, if that is practicable; if not, stay where you are.After the election, and once Obama is inaugurated, there should be some kind of reckoning for McCain, Palin, and the neo-cons. Media monopolies should be busted up, so that they can be less biased, and more truthful. Once the truth is told, the Republican’s can forget about winning in 2012 as well. I can see it now, where the chant of “4 more years” that once sent chills up my spine when used for Bush/McCain, turns into one that puts joy in my heart when used for Obama.9. (4) If it is possible to make an assault with fire from without, do not wait for it to break out within, but deliver your attack at a favorable moment.The Obama campaign has been so successful and rarely self-destructive. So, McCain never wasted time in delivering attacks. The problem is that McCain’s favorable moment never came, because people are fed up with the past, and now is the time for change. 10. (5) When you start a fire, be to windward of it. Do not attack from the leeward.Almost every single attack that McCain has made against Obama has come back to haunt him in some way or another, sooner or later. The real pig roast is yet to come, after the Obama/Biden victory. McCain will feel the heat of public disapproval long after the flames have died down. 11. A wind that rises in the daytime lasts long, but a night breeze soon falls.Barack Obama has run a great campaign, providing his supporters and the general public with transparency and inclusion. This, along with his inspirational persona and candidacy will keep us stay “fired up and ready to go”, long after he leaves the windy city for 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. McCain’s dark ways will be his down fall, and Rovian attacks won’t carry much wind in their sails against Barack Obama in 2012. Especially, not if Rove actually answers his subpoenas.12. In every army, the five developments connected with fire must be known, the movements of the stars calculated, and a watch kept for the proper days.If the Obama campaign ever needs a resident philosopher/psychic/astrologer I’d be happy to help. Supposedly, even Nancy Reagan consulted a psychic regularly, so maybe it’s not a bad or even silly idea. Maybe it could give us an advantage on the Russians, who have been taking psychic phenomena seriously for some time now. Or, maybe it would help with the numerous un-conventially foreseen challenges to come. Wouldn’t it be so cool if I could be a special agent for real life X files?! 13. Hence those who use fire as an aid to the attack show intelligence; those who use water as an aid to the attack gain an accession of strength.I think a big part of Obama’s success is his ability to light the fires of his supporters while remaining the “cool Joe”. No matter how negative and outright insulting the attacks and the smears, the opposition just can’t paint him as a fiery/angry black man. AND, not matter how low the opposition is willing to go, they just can’t stop the uprising of fired up Obama supporters. 14. By means of water, an enemy may be intercepted, but not robbed of all his belongings.Being the “cool Joe” has its disadvantages too. Short-sighted left-wingers have been quick to criticize Obama for not fighting hard enough against some of Bush’s worst policies. But, for those of us concerned with the long term future, we can understand that Obama couldn’t be elected if he was either “too watered down” or “too fiery”. But, once he wins, then he won’t have to fight Bush’s policies. 15. Unhappy is the fate of one who tries to win his battles and succeed in his attacks without cultivating the spirit of enterprise; for the result is waste of time and general stagnation.Business is good for the Obama campaign these days. He’s raised tons of money, and evened the playing field like never before. Republicans are terrified by this newfound Democratic financial advantage and they’ve worked hard to demonize it. When McCain uses his “spread the wealth” talking point, he’s not just talking about taxes. He’s talking about politics and elections as well. They can criticize Obama for passing up public funding all they want, but this time it was necessary to win, and to buy back our democracy. By 2012, I believe Barack Obama and the Democrats will have straightened the situation out, with the for-profit media and the money-driven campaigns/government. 16. Hence the saying: The enlightened ruler lays his plans well ahead; the good general cultivates his resources.I don’t mean to brag, but I’ve been ahead of the game for a while now. So much so, that sometimes I swear the news is stealing from my blogs. But, regardless of my grandiose tootin’ my own horn, the internet and its open source format has been a revolutionary advantage in this presidential election. The revolution will not be televised. 17. Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.This commentary on the Art of War may in some small or possibly big way help to end the wars at home and abroad. Ironic, isn’t it?18. No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique.Since I started my community group on barackobama.com called Voices for Change, I’ve noticed that very few people do any creative writing. Out of hundreds of attempted blog posts (I edit out most of them), the majority are copy/pasted news articles, website links, or redundant talking points. So, why do I go so far as to write commentary on these 13 chapters? Why do I share so much of my original creative works for free? Because free thought, and pamphlets, and essays is what this country was built on. Now, as a soldier for the cause, I gladly serve my country. They say freedom isn’t free, so here I am, paying my dues. 19. If it is to your advantage, make a forward move; if not, stay where you are.I started my community group, because I’m community organizer at heart. But, I see my generation as getting the worst of the industrial revolution. We’ve inherited the pollution, the risky globalization, the disparity between the first and the third worlds, and the social isolation. Now, we’re shifting towards the age of information, but the social isolation is still a big problem. We may be living in a so-called personalized, convenient, technologically advanced world, but if we can’t be creative, artistic, and expressive then all is lost. This campaign was built on hope, and powered by technology. 20. Anger may in time change to gladness; vexation may be succeeded by content.I truly hope that Obama can be so successful at his new job, that even the most muslim hatin’, terrorist fearin’, racist, prejudiced, closed minded McCain/Palin supporters come to respect him. If McCain steals the election all hell will stay on the loose (like it has been for the last many years). But, when Obama wins, there is a chance, no matter how small, that we could all be more united than ever before. 21. But a kingdom that has once been destroyed can never come again into being; nor can the dead ever be brought back to life.Thank God that enough people are hip to the Bush wrong doing as to never let it happen again. Most of us know that he had no business reading “My Pet Goat” while the worst attacks on this nation were taking place. This is why McCain’s choice of Palin was probably the worst decision he could’ve made. Sarah Palin is even more “My Pet Goat” clueless than Bush! The hole has been dug in too deep, now they must lie in it. For real though, my pet fish could do better in 2012 than Palin! 22. Hence the enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution. This is the way to keep a country at peace and an army intact.File type: Y Time:Now Location: Blogosphere Agent:Special Agent Nellieyah File Name: Generation Next

The Top 5 Most Dangerous Male Fantasies with PC Views

Nellieyah — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:25:48 EDT

1) A woman’s place is subordinate to a man’s and/or in the kitchen: John McCain was more of a trickster than a maverick when he chose Sarah Palin for a VP candidate. It was supposed to be a historic mark of progress for American politics, the first woman Republican VP hopeful. But, lately, McCain’s been railing against liberal feminism and admitting that he chose Palin to spite or “counter-point” this particularly large group of women. When you tie that in with Sarah Palin’s railing against “pallin around with radicals” rhetoric, and her “anti-American” (i.e. apple pie) innuendo, it’s easier to see just how sexist and self hating a pair they are. Politically Correct View: You could argue that women are actually superior to men in their ability to manage both a career in a dog-eat-dog man’s world, and raising a family simultaneously. Michelle Obama alone does more for women’s progress with her blue collar to Ivy League to high-profile career/mother story than Sarah Palin ever could. This is given the fact that Sarah Palin won’t talk to either the press or the people openly enough to tell her story, and what she’s learned from her experiences. Palin may be “exciting”, but she’s far from inspiring. 2) Gentlemen prefer blondes/Beauty vs brains: I read an article that said men are far more enthusiastic about Sarah Palin than women. I don’t think it’s only because the men are more excited out of lust for an attractive woman, though this could be a major factor. I think it’s because the women are less excited about Palin. Mothers are especially inclined to think deeply about the safety and well-being of their children, their families, and their communities. When mothers want the best for their children’s future, this means having the best role models. But, with Palin’s refusal to speak directly to the press and to the general public, just like any other professional politician would be required to, it can only lead one to believe that either Sarah Palin is far from the best in her profession, or she thinks she deserves special treatment, or both. PC View: Brains are far more valuable and integral than beauty to a civilized people. Intelligent and wise people know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I’m looking forward to having Michelle Obama as First Lady, because I know she is an accomplished and very worthy role model. 3) A woman is better seen and not heard: Liberal women should be outraged by Sarah Palin’s refusal to speak to or be scrutinized by the media and the American people (liberals and everybody else included). It is insulting that this first female Republican VP candidate is not even asked to live up to the same standards as a male candidate would be, as if she never COULD be equal! Conservative women should be outraged by Sarah Palin’s obvious tempestuousness, and possible soft core porn. It is demoralizing to see the highest representatives of our nation such as the First Lady, or the President or Vice President posing with a rifle in a bikini. Religious conservatives of every faith will have a hard time respecting Palin if they confront this. PC View: Scientific studies show that females are generally better with language and communication. Most early childhood educators are female. All human beings lives are best when they are free to express themselves. It is just as inspiring to hear Michelle Obama speak as it is to hear Barack. Especially, after 8 longs years of Laura Bush’s silence, and plastic smiles, and stiff waves.4) Beauty and the Beast/Pain is pleasure:Obviously, it just doesn’t look right to have the oldest, long-time Washington Insider, stiff, white haired, angry man with the youngest, newest, secessionist sympathizing, bubbly, up-do brunette, beauty queen running for president and VP together. Foolishly, the McCain campaign has tried to sell this as some kind of maverick match made in heaven. But, they got more than they bargained for when Palin’s crowds starting outnumbering what McCain could attract on his own. Then they had to campaign together. Also, so that Palin wasn’t left to her own devices at a speech, lest she get out of line and speak to people ON HER OWN! Now, even when they campaign apart they're losing miserably…together, AND they couldn’t be more proud! PC View: When they say “opposites attract” it means complimentary opposites. Like when in a couple one partner is more responsible and pragmatic, while the other is more spontaneous and adventurous. Or, one partner is more rational and the other is more emotional, or one’s liberal the other is conservative, etc, etc… As for pain and pleasure, sometimes what is in the short term difficult or unpleasant is in the long run beneficial and pleasant and vice versa. But, it is wrong to think that somehow what is painful is pleasurable at the exact same time. Barack Obama is a beautiful person, inside and out, running a successful presidential campaign beautifully. But, since the beginning he has fought the beast of broken government and refused to marry the monstrous system of pay for play, special interest ridden, old school politics. Barack Obama understands our pain, and he doesn’t write it off as our “whining”. Obama doesn’t smile and say “the fundamentals of the economy are strong” when we’re in the middle of an economic crisis. But, he does sometimes ask us to be willing to sacrifice for the greater good.5) Woman with woman action is good, so long as it’s done for male pleasure:John McCain is now actively campaigning against liberal feminists. But, since the feminist movement is by nature a liberal phenomenon, and there is no comparable conservative women’s movement (i.e. no one has to fight for the right to be barefoot and pregnant), then McCain is actually campaigning against women in general. What’s worst is that he’s using a woman on his ticket to run against women’s rights. I bet the same neo-cons who publicly oppose homosexuality and lesbiansism, women’s right to choose, and women’s liberation are the same ones who privately fund the billion dollar a year porn industry. It can’t just be liberals making and buying up all the smut! PC View: Prostitution may be the oldest profession in man’s world, but the first order of business was survival in Mother Nature. Women have every right to be empowered, revered, respected, and protected in their traditional roles as mothers, sisters, daughters, grandmothers, wives, caretakers, servants, helpmates, etc… But, women also have every right to be individuals with their own free will and self determination. Barack Obama will be a president who fully respects and empowers women as a group with an agenda, as well as treat women like individuals with the inaliable birth rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I’m Nellieyah, a liberal feminist, and I approve this message.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 11 of 13

Nellieyah — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 04:55:51 EDT

XI. THE NINE SITUATIONS1. Sun Tzu said: The art of war recognizes nine varieties of ground: (1) Dispersive ground; (2) facile ground; (3) contentious ground; (4) open ground; (5) ground of intersecting highways; (6) serious ground; (7) difficult ground; (8) hemmed-in ground; (9) desperate ground.Numbers are important, despite the fact the McCain and Palin don’t think. I mean, don’t think so. Palin obviously didn’t think it was important to actually name or number the kind of media she reads, when she responded to Katie Couric’s question, “All of them”. And, last debate, when Bob Schieffer asked about a specific percentage number for reducing our dependence on foreign oil in the first presidential term, McCain also said “all of them”, in his own way. Then, he quickly returned to attacking Obama. As far as I could tell, not one of McCain’s answer’s was wholly positive (without attacking Obama), or actually specific. 2. When a chieftain is fighting in his own territory, it is dispersive ground.Apparently, McCain is fighting to hold onto so-called “red states” that Bush won. Maybe that’s why their campaign has taken on an evermore divisive, dispersive tone.3. When he has penetrated into hostile territory, but to no great distance, it is facile ground.For Obama, he has been gaining more and more right-wing support, or at least respect. I hear that even Collin Powell is ready to endorse Obama.4. Ground the possession of which imports great advantage to either side, is contentious ground.Obviously, independents and undecidedes make for a seriously competitive race.5. Ground on which each side has liberty of movement is open ground.In this campaign, only foreign territory is really open. But, when Obama went abroad with great success, McCain tried to turn this ground that’s so full of people with open arms for Obama, into contentious ground.6. Ground which forms the key to three contiguous states, so that he who occupies it first has most of the Empire at his command, is a ground of intersecting highways.I wonder if after we leave Iraq, they might break into 3 states, or provinces anyway? Maybe whatever Joe Biden was talking about in this regard was right. 7. When an army has penetrated into the heart of a hostile country, leaving a number of fortified cities in its rear, it is serious ground.We don’t talk about Iraq so much anymore, but has the Bush administration abandoned the building of permanent bases in Iraq? How serious are the talks about American and British troop withdrawal? If talks about withdrawal are serious, then maybe McCain was wrong about the surge after all. 8. Mountain forests, rugged steeps, marshes and fens--all country that is hard to traverse: this is difficult ground.If anyone knows how to traverse difficult ground, it’s the poor people. MLK died before he could really get the Poor People’s Movement off the ground and equal to the Civil Rights Movement. This current economic crisis just reminds us that without credit, we’re actually poor. Shame, shame on McCain for blaming the victim for wanting to “spread the wealth around”. How else does he propose to make an entirely unfair, disproportionate economy fair and proportionally taxed? 9. Ground which is reached through narrow gorges, and from which we can only retire by tortuous paths, so that a small number of the enemy would suffice to crush a large body of our men: this is hemmed in ground.Sounds like McCain’s hemmed in then. You see, that’s what’s wrong with the Rove brand of politics…They never plan on equality and fairness actually taking place. 10. Ground on which we can only be saved from destruction by fighting without delay, is desperate ground.McCain’s campaign tactics are despicable. They are signs of desperation. 11. On dispersive ground, therefore, fight not. On facile ground, halt not. On contentious ground, attack not. I was pleased with Barack Obama’s answer to the “blame the victim” John Lewis accusations that McCain threw out there in the debate. Instead of counter-attacking, which would have been completely justified, since Obama is the victim of McCain’s hateful race-baiting rallies, Obama focused on the issues. Barack Obama gave more reasons for right-wingers of conscience to respect him. And, he gave independents and undecideds a reassurance that he’s not an angry black man with a vendetta for America’s racism, past or present.12. On open ground, do not try to block the enemy's way. On the ground of intersecting highways, join hands with your allies.Maybe we should ask the Iraqi’s what they want for the country, and then try to find agreement and common ground wherever possible. If we follow the Bush/McCain policy of shoot first, ask later (i.e. “preemption), we’ll never be able to end this war. I’m sure our UN allies would appreciate it.13. On serious ground, gather in plunder. In difficult ground, keep steadily on the march.If Iraq has so many surpluses, then maybe we could use some of it to redeploy our troops. Here at home, we need to rekindle the flame of the Poor People’s March. 14. On hemmed-in ground, resort to stratagem. On desperate ground, fight.Though the Republicans are still trying to turn the tables, and hem us in with voter suppression, all while calling it our voter fraud, we have the truth on our side. As for McCain’s desperate ground, he will fight the only way he knows how – unfairly. 15. Those who were called skillful leaders of old knew how to drive a wedge between the enemy's front and rear; to prevent co-operation between his large and small divisions; to hinder the good troops from rescuing the bad, the officers from rallying their men.More right-wingers are coming out for truth and justice. More criticism of McCain, his campaign, and Sarah Palin is sure to come. The closer we come to an Obama administration, the more people will wake up and smell the opportunity to be on the Boss’ good side. 16. When the enemy's men were united, they managed to keep them in disorder.Sarah Palin may have united the base for a short time on her own merit, but when the economic reality hit, she lost her sheen. So, they went for the “us against them” rally cry. But, they can’t handle us, we’re too great.17. When it was to their advantage, they made a forward move; when otherwise, they stopped still.Obama’s campaign has been steadily moving forward, and there aint no stoppin’ us now…we’re on the move.18. If asked how to cope with a great host of the enemy in orderly array and on the point of marching to the attack, I should say: "Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will."Honor is the thing McCain hold’s most dearly. Surely, he has a conscious deep down inside telling him he’s on the wrong track. If only he could remember the smears an attacks he faced from his previous presidential campaigns, and then practice the Golden Rule. If not, he will lose to Obama with so much shame, shame on McCain.19. Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.This is challenging, seeing how the Republicans are super guarded. But, I know better. Inside every bully is a coward. I recommend that neo-con’s philanthropic ambitions and records be scrutinized. Lord knows they’re good for being wolves in sheep’s clothing. 20. The following are the principles to be observed by an invading force: The further you penetrate into a country, the greater will be the solidarity of your troops, and thus the defenders will not prevail against you.I say, if McCain wants division, give it to him. This will only whittle his troops down further and further because most people want a UNITED States of America. 21. Make forays in fertile country in order to supply your army with food.Wouldn’t it be cool if a bunch of rich Republicans had an awakening like T.Boone Pickens did when he decided to get us independent of foreign oil?22. Carefully study the well-being of your men, and do not overtax them. Concentrate your energy and hoard your strength. Keep your army continually on the move, and devise unfathomable plans.Neo-cons never expected us to get this far. But, what they really don’t expect is for us to do better in a foreign policy/terrorist crisis. That’s the one strength that McCain has left. If Obama can’t prove that he’s better equipped to handle a national security crisis like he’s proven he’s better with an economic crisis, than at least he can remind people where Bush failed to protect us, and how McCain is more of the same.23. Throw your soldiers into positions whence there is no escape, and they will prefer death to flight. If they will face death, there is nothing they may not achieve. Officers and men alike will put forth their uttermost strength.For the independent’s and undecideds, they must be made aware that this historical election is a matter of life or death. If in the few remaining days of the campaign, a terrorist threat just so happens to surface, this will seem like a Republican/McCain advantage. But we must remember that before Bush ruined the economy, he ruined our national security, hence a weakness on their part. If terrorists show strength, this shows Republican’s weakness, not strength as the conventional wisdom has it.24. Soldiers when in desperate straits lose the sense of fear. If there is no place of refuge, they will stand firm. If they are in hostile country, they will show a stubborn front. If there is no help for it, they will fight hard.For all their fear mongering, the neo-cons are getting so desperate as to not have the natural God-given fear that they should. This stubborn refusal to change course, and run a decent campaign will force them to fight hard to the point of exhaustion. When they realized they have lost power and control, that’s when the fear will set in.25. Thus, without waiting to be marshaled, the soldiers will be constantly on the qui vive; without waiting to be asked, they will do your will; without restrictions, they will be faithful; without giving orders, they can be trusted.Yes, we Obama supporters are also desperate and fearless, in our own way. Desperate for change for the better. Fearless of fear itself. 26. Prohibit the taking of omens, and do away with superstitious doubts. Then, until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared.When that woman stood up at McCain’s rally talking about Obama is an Arab, AND McCain did nothing to say that all things Arabic aren’t bad, I knew something. Not that that lady was educated or anything, but if she was, she might know that algebra is Arabic. Or that some of the world’s earliest Christians were Arabs. This woman and her kind need not fear Arabs, so much as their own ignorance and miseducation. She must be a child of God, left behind. 27. If our soldiers are not overburdened with money, it is not because they have a distaste for riches; if their lives are not unduly long, it is not because they are disinclined to longevity.If Cindy McCain really supports our troops(and not just her son), then why doesn’t she sell one of her 7 or 8 homes and use the proceeds to help military families? Why doesn’t she forsake some of her earthly riches and start a non-profit veteran’s organization? It seems her and McCain are busy enough just managing their private property, they can’t even remember how much of it they have.28. On the day they are ordered out to battle, your soldiers may weep, those sitting up bedewing their garments, and those lying down letting the tears run down their cheeks. But let them once be brought to bay, and they will display the courage of a Chu or a Kuei.29. The skillful tactician may be likened to the shuai-jan. Now the shuai-jan is a snake that is found in the ChUng mountains. Strike at its head, and you will be attacked by its tail; strike at its tail, and you will be attacked by its head; strike at its middle, and you will be attacked by head and tail both.30. Asked if an army can be made to imitate the shuai-jan, I should answer, Yes. For the men of Wu and the men of Yueh are enemies; yet if they are crossing a river in the same boat and are caught by a storm, they will come to each other's assistance just as the left hand helps the right.A national security crisis could actually bring us together, like 9/11 did. That’s why the neo-con’s plan to steal the election by using McCain’s only strong point at the people’s expense has failed before it’s even happened. People and the media are going to be on edge, expecting an October surprise. But, Obama can stay ahead of the game by talking about how he would handle one, differently than Bush/McCain, BEFORE one actually happens. This would also prove that he’s not a terrorist, nor does he want bad things to happen to our country, as pallin’ around Palin would have us believe.31. Hence it is not enough to put one's trust in the tethering of horses, and the burying of chariot wheels in the ground32. The principle on which to manage an army is to set up one standard of courage which all must reach.33. How to make the best of both strong and weak--that is a question involving the proper use of ground.34. Thus the skillful general conducts his army just as though he were leading a single man, willy-nilly, by the hand.What if Bush actually agreed with Obama? If Bush’s approval is already low, and McCain’s campaign is dragging, AND Palin’s bubble is burst, then what is their base holding on to? Before Obama, Bush thought he would have never-ending executive privilege. But, when Obama wins, Bush will have plenty of incentives, positive and negative, to try to cooperate with an Obama administration. His legacy and freedom will depend on it. 35. It is the business of a general to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order.36. He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.37. By altering his arrangements and changing his plans, he keeps the enemy without definite knowledge. By shifting his camp and taking circuitous routes, he prevents the enemy from anticipating his purpose.38. At the critical moment, the leader of an army acts like one who has climbed up a height and then kicks away the ladder behind him. He carries his men deep into hostile territory before he shows his hand.Surely, this is what Bush/Cheney did to the American public and to our troops in order to get this far with this war. But, remember the Obama critics on both sides? Some say Obama’s too liberal. Other’s say Obama’s not liberal enough. At the critical moment, Obama and “congressional liberals” will show their hand.39. He burns his boats and breaks his cooking-pots; like a shepherd driving a flock of sheep, he drives his men this way and that, and nothing knows whither he is going.40. To muster his host and bring it into danger:--this may be termed the business of the general.When critics say Obama is too liberal, they fail to see how appealing he is to anybody with some damn sense, conservatives included. And, when critics say he’s not liberal enough, they fail to see him being the catalyst for change, but not the change itself, which must come from we the people.41. The different measures suited to the nine varieties of ground; the expediency of aggressive or defensive tactics; and the fundamental laws of human nature: these are things that must most certainly be studied. 42. When invading hostile territory, the general principle is, that penetrating deeply brings cohesion; penetrating but a short way means dispersion.Everyone knows that the neo-cons failed policies come from even before the Bush years. And so, we have to go back to that great liberal uprising known as the Civil Rights Movement, and restart the Poor People’s engine and ingenuity. 43. When you leave your own country behind, and take your army across neighborhood territory, you find yourself on critical ground. When there are means of communication on all four sides, the ground is one of intersecting highways.44. When you penetrate deeply into a country, it is serious ground. When you penetrate but a little way, it is facile ground.45. When you have the enemy's strongholds on your rear, and narrow passes in front, it is hemmed-in ground. When there is no place of refuge at all, it is desperate ground.46. Therefore, on dispersive ground, I would inspire my men with unity of purpose. On facile ground, I would see that there is close connection between all parts of my army.47. On contentious ground, I would hurry up my rear.48. On open ground, I would keep a vigilant eye on my defenses. On ground of intersecting highways, I would consolidate my alliances.49. On serious ground, I would try to ensure a continuous stream of supplies. On difficult ground, I would keep pushing on along the road.50. On hemmed-in ground, I would block any way of retreat. On desperate ground, I would proclaim to my soldiers the hopelessness of saving their lives.51. For it is the soldier's disposition to offer an obstinate resistance when surrounded, to fight hard when he cannot help himself, and to obey promptly when he has fallen into danger.52. We cannot enter into alliance with neighboring princes until we are acquainted with their designs. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country--its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps. We shall be unable to turn natural advantages to account unless we make use of local guides.We often use the word grassroots, but I think John Edwards was right to talk about “poverty”. Obviously, McCain is going to continue to demonize “sharing the wealth”. But, either he wants to fight greed and corruption, or he wants to fight poor people. 53. To be ignored of any one of the following four or five principles does not befit a warlike prince.54. When a warlike prince attacks a powerful state, his generalship shows itself in preventing the concentration of the enemy's forces. He overawes his opponents, and their allies are prevented from joining against him.What would shock and awe the neocons is for the Poor People to March. Sure, they have been over-aggressive at the DNC and RNC against protestors. But, those protestors were overtly political and partisan. The Poor People’s March is a moral cause that even the most right-wing evangelical should be able to understand.55. Hence he does not strive to ally himself with all and sundry, nor does he foster the power of other states. He carries out his own secret designs, keeping his antagonists in awe. Thus he is able to capture their cities and overthrow their kingdoms.Right now, we poor, meek people have no state. In fact, it’s in the most critical battle ground states that our vote is being suppressed the most. Barack Obama always has allied himself with us, and surprisingly, we are what will catapult him to the highest office of the land. 56. Bestow rewards without regard to rule, issue orders without regard to previous arrangements; and you will be able to handle a whole army as though you had to do with but a single man.57. Confront your soldiers with the deed itself; never let them know your design. When the outlook is bright, bring it before their eyes; but tell them nothing when the situation is gloomy.58. Place your army in deadly peril, and it will survive; plunge it into desperate straits, and it will come off in safety.59. For it is precisely when a force has fallen into harm's way that is capable of striking a blow for victory.The difference between McCain’s desperation and Obama’s desperation is this; McCain is desperate to maintain a façade of maverickdom, a lie. Obama’s desperation is to expose the truth of the Bush years and to save our future generations. Not many people have a personal stake in upholding the neo-cons lies. But, EVERYONE has a stake in EVERYONE’S future. Obama wins. 60. Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the enemy's purpose.61. By persistently hanging on the enemy's flank, we shall succeed in the long run in killing the commander-in-chief.62. This is called ability to accomplish a thing by sheer cunning.It is long past due to put the Bush regime to rest. I pity McCain for vainly trying to prolong it.63. On the day that you take up your command, block the frontier passes, destroy the official tallies, and stop the passage of all emissaries.The Judicial branch has been asleep for these past Bush years. It’s time the Obama administration give it a wake-up call. 64. Be stern in the council-chamber, so that you may control the situation.Bush and the neo-cons will try to weasel out of justice, cook and destroy the official books of what the hell they’ve been up to, and stop the newcomers from smooth transitions. So, it is we the people who must be stern.65. If the enemy leaves a door open, you must rush in.The good thing is that if the Bush administration is as sloppy about sweeping their dirt under the rug as they are at running the country, it is only a matter of time before justice prevails.66. Forestall your opponent by seizing what he holds dear, and subtly contrive to time his arrival on the ground.Intelligence is what they lack, but what they do have will be fiercely guarded. 67. Walk in the path defined by rule, and accommodate yourself to the enemy until you can fight a decisive battle.Fortunately, Obama will be our next president. Unfortunately, Bush was our last one. Thus, a decisive battle will be required in the transition, in order for our next president to do his job. Obama says he’ll go through the budget line, by line, item by item. But, this is precisely were Bush has done the most damage, and were the most greed and corruption lie. Transparency has been non-existent, and this will be hard to change overnight. 68. At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.If you don’t know by know, Obama aint not punk and neither are his supporters. So, let the “tough guys” like McCain and Palin get all revved up if they want to. That will just give Obama some cover when he has to come down heavy handed. This has been another WWW Smackdown by Nellieyah, and I’m readddyy to rummmmbble!

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 10 of 13

Nellieyah — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 04:54:53 EDT

X. TERRAIN1. Sun Tzu said: We may distinguish six kinds of terrain, to wit: (1) Accessible ground; (2) entangling ground;(3) temporizing ground; (4) narrow passes; (5) precipitous heights; (6) positions at a great distance from the enemy.Normally, I would say that these six kinds of terrain are too many for your average anti-intellectual neo-con to wit. But out of my own compassionate-conservative capacities, I will politely refer to them as “anti-smart” neo-cons. Intellectuals should find my commentary rather enlightening.2. Ground which can be freely traversed by both sides is called accessible.This is how real bipartisan government should be defined. Polls say that the approval rating for the Congress is even worse than Bush’s dismally low numbers. But, I think it’s because either the pollsters are framing the questions poorly, or the American public being polled doesn’t realize just how tyrannical the Republicans have been. I listen to progressive talk radio every day on the Mic 92.1FM, and I hear these complaints first hand that we elected a Democratic majority for good reasons, not so they could cower to the Republicans. But, I was one of the fighting Bob’s from Madison, Wisconsin (the capitol city whose motto is “Forward”) who stood up to Clear Channel radio when they tried to turn our progressive talk station into a sports channel right after Democrats won the majority in 2006…Apparently, to prevent more Democratic awareness, organizing, and power-grabbing. If people want real bipartisan government that is not derailed, and filibustered, AND sabotaged by the Republican administration still in power, they’re going to have to get some fighting Bob in ‘em, like we Badgers did! 3. With regard to ground of this nature, be before the enemy in occupying the raised and sunny spots, and carefully guard your line of supplies. Then you will be able to fight with advantage.Shame, shame on McCain for claiming that Obama has not been bipartisan in any way whatsoever. If McCain’s so bipartisan it’s probably only because nobody on his team wanted him, so he HAD to reach out to the competition. Still, the most partisan decision in McCain’s whole campaign was to choose Sarah Palin as his running mate. We progressives dread the idea that Barracuda could replace either Dick or Dubya. How unfair to anybody who believes in civil rights, or feminism, or environmental protection, or peace, or justice, or transparency in government, or fiscal responsibility, or homeland security, or the American Dream! 4. Ground which can be abandoned but is hard to re-occupy is called entangling.McCain and Palin need to abandon their hate speech apparently intended to incite hate crimes, and never again return. This low ground has gotten too low, and we Obama supporters are already worried about his safety. Thankfully, I do believe in an Omniscient, Omnipotent, and Omnipresent God, who is our Shepard, we shall not want. I also believe there is a place in Hell for people who are inhumane to other people. 5. From a position of this sort, if the enemy is unprepared, you may sally forth and defeat him. But if the enemy is prepared for your coming, and you fail to defeat him, then, return being impossible, disaster will ensue.When McCain and Palin lose, and the Bush administration has left office, the fear mongering they once promoted will come back to eat them alive. How can McCain face his senate colleagues the same after referring to the most influential of them as “that one”? When the McCain campaign has stopped bullying the media and the Alaskan legislature on Sarah Palin’s behalf, how will she fare in her trooper-gate case, or with the Alaskan public? And as for the Bush administration… what if even the most liberal of liberals decides to keep Gitmo open, just for the worst of the Grand Old Poopheads? 6. When the position is such that neither side will gain by making the first move, it is called temporizing ground.After giving an inspiring speech to such a large crowd in Europe, Barack Obama was chastised as being “pretentious”. But, when McCain has traveled abroad and not drawn much of any attention, these trips have been rather pointless, in terms of political scoring. Obama has authentic star power and charisma, but for all his accomplishment and intellect, he was compared to anti-smart pop icons. Now, McCain uses Palin’s anti-smart celebrity to fill his crowds, and boost his own standing, despite the fact that she’s not qualified (i.e. anti-smart), and this is inexcusable hypocrisy. 7. In a position of this sort, even though the enemy should offer us an attractive bait, it will be advisable not to stir forth, but rather to retreat, thus enticing the enemy in his turn; then, when part of his army has come out, we may deliver our attack with advantage.I still think that hypocrisy is the main argument against the McCain-Palin ticket. Obama and Biden have tried to be such gentlemen who not even the extremely biased corporate (i.e. for profit) media could depict as “sexist” or “unpatriotic”. But, in the process, the essence of the competition for the highest offices in the land is lost. I say, let McCain and Palin start it, but Obama and Biden dutifully finish it. When McCain falls back on his “war hero” routine, ask a question, like “How many of today’s veterans are getting the same opportunities (or healthcare, benefits, honor, and recognition) as you, John? Or, “Sarah,you say that the media (or whoever) is being sexist, but how should the young women who look up to you as a role model deal with the sexism they are sure to encounter in their own lives and careers? This forces them to consider others AND the future in general!8. With regard to narrow passes, if you can occupy them first, let them be strongly garrisoned and await the advent of the enemy.Barack Obama’s race makes for a very narrow pass indeed. He can’t be too this, or too that, too smart, or too angry, or too honest, or too radical. Really, if we go by the standards of the current powers that be, Barack Obama simply cannot exist. Shame, shame on Palin’s game, letting people in her crowd yell out “Kill him!” and such. I think she’s guilty of association with a would-be presidential assassin. Who is Sarah Palin, really? She’s not one of us, and she doesn’t think that the history Barack Obama has made, a history that is distinctly American, is hers. She thinks that ruining the lives of millions of Americans is patriotic. I am fearful, that she just doesn’t think like we intellectuals often do, AND somehow she might be our leader! 9. Should the army forestall you in occupying a pass, do not go after him if the pass is fully garrisoned, but only if it is weakly garrisoned.We liberals always loath the phony right-wing outrage we’ve seen the McCain campaign resort to on more than one occasion. But, here’s our chance to get a real outrage campaign going. McCain’s campaign is inciting hatred and even assassination and I personally am outraged. Being blessed with the powers of visualization, it’s not hard for me to imagine what it would be like to suffer such a loss. My blogs alone are a testament to how much I’m personally invested in this man and his campaign for presidency. I can see myself screaming out in agony and disbelief at the television or radio, or person who communicates such God-awful news to me. Then I can see people taking to the streets in protest. Some rioting, like when King was shot. Others woeful and awestruck like with Kennedy. But, just like there is a federal holiday and a street named for King in every city, and countless namesakes and institutions for Kennedy, there would eventually be a community organizing training center everywhere, city and rural, national and international, for Obama’s legacy. Thus, guaranteeing more Obamas to come. 10. With regard to precipitous heights, if you are beforehand with your adversary, you should occupy the raised and sunny spots, and there wait for him to come up.Eventually, McCain will have to come up to Obama’s high road, and start talking about Main Street. This maybe after McCain has already lost the election, but if he’s God-fearing, he should get started now.11. If the enemy has occupied them before you, do not follow him, but retreat and try to entice him away.McCain’s campaign is so low, there’s no need to worry about him reaching precipitous heights. 12. If you are situated at a great distance from the enemy, and the strength of the two armies is equal, it is not easy to provoke a battle, and fighting will be to your disadvantage.The key is to let undecideds and people in general know how much we have in common, how many of our goals are shared, or in other words, not fight to our disadvantage. 13. These six are the principles connected with Earth. The general who has attained a responsible post must be careful to study them.If McCain’s military experience is so advanced, soooo necessary in foreign policy crisis, then why is his anti-smart ass getting kicked by a 25 year old, female healthcare worker’s blogs? Obviously, he could stand to learn a thing or two about the art of war.14. Now an army is exposed to six several calamities, not arising from natural causes, but from faults for which the general is responsible. These are:(1) Flight; (2) insubordination; (3) collapse; (4) ruin;(5) disorganization; (6) rout.Come here, let me school you whipasnapas for a minute…15. Other conditions being equal, if one force is hurled against another ten times its size, the result will be the flight of the former.Excuse me for keepin’ it real, ‘cause I know Hillary is out campaigning hard for Obama, BUT remember when her supporters were talking about taking the primary fight all the way to the convention, while her campaign was still millions in debt? Obama supporters may not have been ten times their size, but our faith in our candidate, who won our support based on hope, action, and change, must have been. Because Hillraisers took flight from donating money, for all the tough talk.16. When the common soldiers are too strong and their officers too weak, the result is insubordination. When the officers are too strong and the common soldiers too weak, the result is collapse.Remember when Michael Brown lead FEMA and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita happened? I’m sure there were so many Americans, government, military, and civilians who were ready and capable to respond to the crisis. I remember how Mayor Ray Nagin, and local leaders took a lot of the heat from an outraged public. But, we all know now, that it was Bush and the top officials who really failed us. Hurricane Katrina’s lack of response is a classic example of both of these principles of insubordination and collapse.17. When the higher officers are angry and insubordinate, and on meeting the enemy give battle on their own account from a feeling of resentment, before the commander-in-chief can tell whether or not he is in a position to fight, the result is ruin.Remember Guantanamo Bay interrogations? How about Abu Ghraib naked pyramids? What is extraordinary rendition anyway? Have we prosecuted anybody who didn’t commit suicide who was responsible for 9/11? What new intelligence has come to light that will protect us in the future?18. When the general is weak and without authority;when his orders are not clear and distinct; when there are no fixed duties assigned to officers and men, and the ranks are formed in a slovenly haphazard manner, the result is utter disorganization.When Congress authorized this war, did they also agree to let privatization compromise our military? If billions are being requested for the war, but soldiers still don’t have the armor, or resources, or even troops (i.e. soldiers) they need to fight, AND Iraq is still in ruins, AND the Taliban is rising, is the mission still accomplished?19. When a general, unable to estimate the enemy's strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, or hurls a weak detachment against a powerful one, and neglects to place picked soldiers in the front rank, the result must be rout.If McCain believes that Obama is dishonorable to our troops for trying to bring them home, then can he at least explain how a rowdy band of terrorist groups like Al Qaeda have managed to bring the most powerful military in the world to a point of weakness, and the richest nation on earth to record debt? All he knows is the surge, but has the surge eliminated Al Qaeda or merely helped it to recruit? 20. These are six ways of courting defeat, which must be carefully noted by the general who has attained a responsible post.The only way to eliminate terrorist groups like Al Qaeda is to understand why they exist in the first place. Top notch intelligence could’ve prevented this war. After President Obama responsibly withdraws our troops and ends the war, it will be top notch intelligence that keeps us safe in the future. Anti-smart people need not apply. 21. The natural formation of the country is the soldier's best ally; but a power of estimating the adversary, of controlling the forces of victory, and of shrewdly calculating difficulties, dangers and distances, constitutes the test of a great general.McCain loves to talk about leaving Iraq with “honor” and “victory”, but what he hates to talk about is controlling the forces of victory. If “victory” means a politically stable democratic Iraqi nation, then we Americans have very little, if any control. Nor should we seek to control another nation’s democracy. Hell, if we can make it through this election with out Bush stealing it, I’ll call that “victory” and “honor”. But, if all we do is leave Iraq, tell them “you’re on your own”, and start protecting our homeland in earnest, I’ll call that “inevitable”. Neo-cons will argue that we have a responsibility to STAY and rebuild that nation, but I say, “Then, you shouldn’t have torn it down in the first place!” We need to rebuild our own nation, dammit! 22. He who knows these things, and in fighting puts his knowledge into practice, will win his battles. He who knows them not, nor practices them, will surely be defeated.Being able to imagine the future well, I can see that like Hillary, McCain will never quite admit to defeat. Despite all the facts, he will find a way to spin his loss, point fingers of blame (or at least pound that one finger into a podium), and declare some kind of victory. I say, sure, whatever float’s your boat ( you pervert).23. If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight, even though the ruler forbid it; if fighting will not result in victory, then you must not fight even at the ruler's bidding.Thank God I’m for Obama! We must fight, because the integrity of American democracy is at stake. We must fight in spite of the Bush regime’s abuse of what was already the most concentrated source of power in the world. McCain is just a puppet, not unlike many other world leaders set up by the Bush crime family. He’d do better to just quit for health reasons or some other reasonable excuse. 24. The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom.Barack Obama did exactly what he’s doing today before he was the most popular man in the world. He waited patiently all these 8 years of Bush, without shame or disgrace. His only thought IS to protect this country and do good for we the people, and he is the jewel of my heart. My heart being meek like that of a child belongs to God’s kingdom. Together we shall inherit the earth. 25. Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look upon them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death.My writings should be proof that I am seriously intellectual, or at least pro-smart. But, instead of going to college, or getting any serious money or recognition for my intellect, I’ve been forced to work two healthcare jobs just to NOT have enough to get by. Abusive/neglectful parents, minority race, sex, and low-income class status, and the overall loss of the American Dream’s attainability have at times made me feel that my future is so limited and so bleak that it may not be worth sticking around for. But, Barack Obama’s story alone gives me inspiration and a reason to be. Just knowing that someone like him has already succeeded in bringing power and opportunity from the bottom up keeps me going strong. So, even after long hours of hard physical labor, I devotedly work sharing what little I have, be it my thoughts and ideas, my art, my time, or my volunteer labor to see to it that he is elected president. Because maybe when he is president, I won’t have to work two jobs, nor will I be in debt to credit industries or payday loans. Maybe, I can afford to go to school and still independently keep a roof over my head. Maybe, I can feel good about starting a family, because there will be guaranteed healthcare. Maybe I could balance my career and family better than my ambitious single mother did, neglecting her kids for her career. Maybe black men as smart as my father won’t spend so much of their lives in and out of the criminal justice system. Maybe I can have my own small business, and compete with corporate giants. Maybe I can be the founder of a non-profit community center, with federal grant money ready to build up my dream. Maybe, we will do something to save the planet from our own pollution. Maybe, just maybe I could be president someday. So, if anybody ever asked me what it would take to give up on this movement for change, and accept 4 more years of the same anti-smart stagnation I’d tell them what Nettie told Ms. Ceily in “The Color Purple”; Nothing but death can keep me from it!26. If, however, you are indulgent, but unable to make your authority felt; kind-hearted, but unable to enforce your commands; and incapable, moreover, of quelling disorder: then your soldiers must be likened to spoilt children;they are useless for any practical purpose.So, when is McCain going to command his camp to stop dishonoring our president-in-waiting? Those spoiled brats need to enlist in the Peace Corps, and travel to Haiti or any other impoverished nation and see what it’s like to NOT have. 27. If we know that our own men are in a condition to attack, but are unaware that the enemy is not open to attack, we have gone only halfway towards victory.28. If we know that the enemy is open to attack, but are unaware that our own men are not in a condition to attack, we have gone only halfway towards victory.29. If we know that the enemy is open to attack, and also know that our men are in a condition to attack, but are unaware that the nature of the ground makes fighting impracticable, we have still gone only halfway towards victory.If we let McCain win, half-way is as close we’ll get to victory in anything. Victory is the war on terror, victory in rebuilding our country’s economy and infrastructure, victory in living the American Dream. 30. Hence the experienced soldier, once in motion, is never bewildered; once he has broken camp, he is never at a loss.I think that we are all soldiers in the army of God. Not religion’s God, but the Source of all Life. Because God gave us our life, we shall fear no evil, even in the face of death. Eternal Life can never die.31. Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt;if you know Heaven and know Earth, you may make your victory complete.

Color Coded

Nellieyah — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:54:13 EDT

Red necks in red states eatin' tainted red meat, waitin' for a code red to give them a reason to stick together. A reason to idolize red, white, and blue. Another code red that sends black smoke into pink lungs, and green backs into Blackwater. In red states that are turnin' blue because their green is in the red. Tainted red debt that might be ready to vote for a black man for president. A black man whose mother was white. White like the white lies red necks tell themselves when they're eatin' red meat from a tainted factory full of brown people. People brown like the tap water in a big grey city. A grey city in a blue state with orange haze and smog. A blue state that's got the blues, because their blue skies are grey. Grey fog blockin' clear sight of a black man runnin' for president. Blockin' truth from green voters like red China blockin' the golden rules. Green voters who want green jobs and deep purple hearts. Purple hearts for bravin' attacks from yellow bellied politicians. Politicians who see everything in black and white. Waitin' for a code red to give red necks in red states a reason to stick together.

The Art of War By Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 9 of 13

Nellieyah — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 03:37:40 EDT

IX. THE ARMY ON THE MARCH1. Sun Tzu said: We come now to the question of encamping the army, and observing signs of the enemy. Pass quickly over mountains, and keep in the neighborhood of valleys.It seems that Sarah Palin’s celebrity has been the only rock-solid thing going for the McCain campaign…Or, is it? After last night’s debate with Joe Biden, this particular mountain will be quickly passed over. Palin has been avoiding transparency at all costs, while trying to win people over based on keeping up appearances. This lose-lose strategy is bound to continue to fail, because you can’t be a “maverick” promising that “change is coming” when you’re lying and hiding from the American people (Just like Bush/Cheney), all while using corny colloquialisms at every totally scripted appearance, pretending to be just an “average Joe”. By the way, McCain is a damn word thief, and that fool owes me some money for my intellectual property. At the end of Chapter 6, I used an old slave song talking about “wait until my change comes”, etc… So, in fact, McCain might just owe me, plus reparations for slavery! 2. Camp in high places, facing the sun. Do not climb heights in order to fight. So much for mountain warfare.Thank goodness Obama has stuck to the high road. Soon, we can all have our day in the sun. Meanwhile, I hear that almost 100% of McCain’s advertising is negative, AND he’s pulling out of Michigan, AND maybe Pennsylvania, AND that Obama’s got a new dish network channel. Mountains are high, but satellites can reach even higher, and we don’t have to climb to get there. 3. After crossing a river, you should get far away from it.Murky waters were flowing strong the day before the VP debate when Gwen Ifill’s book became a neo-con excuse. How dare they expect that professional journalists won’t be documenting these historical times? I guess Bush and the neo-cons have got so much covering up to do, so much that they don’t want to go down in history, that they’ve assumed the rest of us, journalists included, wouldn’t notice. 4. When an invading force crosses a river in its onward march, do not advance to meet it in mid-stream. It will be best to let half the army get across, and then deliver your attack.I doubt that the moderator-gate fake outrage will go anywhere now that the VP debate is over. But, there are already concerns about anti-Obama bias coming from folks like Tom Brokaw in the next debate. Lord knows that ABC primary debate with Charlie Gibson and George Snuffleupagus was too far the real issues and too close to Rove’s home.5. If you are anxious to fight, you should not go to meet the invader near a river which he has to cross.John McCain’s ship is sinking…But, rather than to meet him for a fight, liberals should find an insider to sneak and poke a hole it to speed up the process. 6. Moor your craft higher up than the enemy, and facing the sun. Do not move up-stream to meet the enemy. So much for river warfare.Again, shining light and avoiding undue struggle is key. I think the Obama camp should pretend that they’re the McCain camp, and anticipate the next line of attack…then, self-deprecatingly admit to it and expose it first, before the McCain camp does. It will take the wind out of their attack sails, while proving that Obama is a true believer in transparency. 7. In crossing salt-marshes, your sole concern should be to get over them quickly, without any delay.8. If forced to fight in a salt-marsh, you should have water and grass near you, and get your back to a clump of trees. So much for operations in salt-marches.I anticipate the revival of the bitter-gate/elitism accusations (code for black man-gate). But, hearing the story of Obama’s grandfather, and how after he served his country, he still struggled in his career and even made less than his wife, will put Obama on the side of working-class white men who may be afraid to vote for a black man. Once they understand that Obama is also a white man, just like them, bitter-gate II will pass quickly. 9. In dry, level country, take up an easily accessible position with rising ground to your right and on your rear, so that the danger may be in front, and safety lie behind. So much for campaigning in flat country.McCain has failed at this miserably. He keeps trying to climb uphill, and go against the current, hoping it will make him live up to his “maverick” image. When he pulled that “country first” stunt, pretending to suspend his campaign to work on the bailout, he messed up, to put it politely. First, he dissed the American people who have a right to know who they’re electing to the highest office of our nation. Then, he dissed Ole Miss and all the hard work, time and money that went into hosting the debate. Then, he dissed the media by trying to cancel on one of their biggest nights. Then, he gave the finger to lawmakers who really WERE trying to solve the problem. Then, he ruined a perfectly good campaign/debate practice day for Obama, by using Bush to call an “emergency” meeting. As a strong believer in karma, I believe McCain will be dissed and dismissed by the voters come election day! 10. These are the four useful branches of military knowledge which enabled the Yellow Emperor to vanquish four several sovereigns.Speaking of the Yellow Emperor, if we are not careful, China may rise up against us. Word on the street is, they’re the ones helping to bail us out of our and the world’s financial crisis. I never did understand how neo-cons could get away with labeling liberals like Obama, with his universal healthcare plan a “socialist” or a “communist”, and turn around a give all of our jobs and skills, and trade, AND power away to a vicious communist Chinese regime! 11. All armies prefer high ground to low and sunny places to dark.Not the Cheney army! He’s already made it clear that he prefers to work in the shadows.12. If you are careful of your men, and camp on hard ground, the army will be free from disease of every kind, and this will spell victory.I think the reason why we’ll never hear Obama or anybody with some damn sense use the word “victory” in referring to the war in Iraq is because the Bush doctrine is to be careless of his men (and women). First neo-cons use soldiers as props for their phony patriotism. Then, they use soldiers as cannon fodder for a war we should not be fighting in the first place. Then, they go back to using them as props, for election purposes, all while denying them decent Veterans benefits. 13. When you come to a hill or a bank, occupy the sunny side, with the slope on your right rear. Thus you will at once act for the benefit of your soldiers and utilize the natural advantages of the ground.As far as I know, the chaos that ensued after Operation Iraqi Freedom was the only mission accomplished. Years later, basic humanitarian concerns are still being neglected. In many places what used to be civilians are now refugees. Sectarian violence and ethnic cleansing have wiped out entire neighborhoods, and the “surge” was not the “be-all, end-all” cure. At the next debate, I hope a town-haller asks McCain what he thinks about Iraqi civilians and their day-to-day living conditions. He either has to naively state that “the fundamentals of Iraqi civilian life are sound”, or else admit that this war is a failure by both Iraqi AND American civilian standards. 14. When, in consequence of heavy rains up-country, a river which you wish to ford is swollen and flecked with foam, you must wait until it subsides.We Obama supporters waited patiently for the Palin popularity bubble to burst. But, McCain will have to wait until the day he dies to see this river, this movement for change subside. I’m only 25 years old. But, regardless of if Obama wins or loses, the audacity of hope is a gift I will cherish forever. As a natural born optimist, I have no choice. 15. Country in which there are precipitous cliffs with torrents running between, deep natural hollows, confined places, tangled thickets, quagmires and crevasses, should be left with all possible speed and not approached.This sounds like a description of the presidency Obama is about to inherit. But, with extraordinary grassroots help, together we can see it through! 16. While we keep away from such places, we should get the enemy to approach them; while we face them, we should let the enemy have them on his rear.With questions from the public, the next debate should test McCain more on how he will deal with the most chaotic presidential inheritance in recent history. Obama has already proven that he is real change from the last 8 years of Bush/Cheney. Obama already has a detailed, yet practical plan for everything that concerns us. I even found some articles about Obama’s campaign calls to the deaf using TTY technology, and testimony from adults with disabilities comparing Obama's plans with McCain’s lack thereof. 17. If in the neighborhood of your camp there should be any hilly country, ponds surrounded by aquatic grass, hollow basins filled with reeds, or woods with thick undergrowth, they must be carefully routed out and searched; for these are places where men in ambush or insidious spies are likely to be lurking.The Bush Administration. 18. When the enemy is close at hand and remains quiet, he is relying on the natural strength of his position.Joe Biden did a great job at the debates, without even attacking Sarah Palin directly. Most of the reviews I’ve seen say that Palin did well just because actually talked (yippee!), but that her talk was too rehearsed, lacked substance, and often didn’t answer the question asked of her. But, Cool Joe was able to demonstrate a real abundance of knowledge and experience. 19. When he keeps aloof and tries to provoke a battle, he is anxious for the other side to advance.20. If his place of encampment is easy of access, he is tendering a bait.So far, the only real argument that McCain and Palin are making in their ads and debates is almost as old as McCain; Liberal democrats are going to raise taxes and spend wastefully (code for support government-funded public services and entitlements), and grow government control (code for regulation). But, this has already failed them, and will continue to do so, so long as people continue to be fed up with Bush’s economic policies, and Cheney’s tyrannical anti-democracy. 21. Movement amongst the trees of a forest shows that the enemy is advancing. The appearance of a number of screens in the midst of thick grass means that the enemy wants to make us suspicious.When McCain called that meeting just before the first debate, he and the media made it sound like the president called the meeting out of necessity for the crisis. Of course Obama wouldn’t refuse an invitation from the president, especially if he could be of help. But, it was just proof that McCain really is BushIII, or maybe BushVI, if you count H.W.’s VP and presidential terms!22. The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an ambuscade. Startled beasts indicate that a sudden attack is coming.Unfortunately, I think the October surprise may be more sinister than any of us would expect or like to believe. Now that even staunch conservatives are denouncing McCain and his Palin VP pick, a sudden attack may be coming. McCain says “change is coming” but I after being rushed into war, rushed into loss of civil rights, and now rushed into the ultimate financial disaster, I won’t be that surprised if another manufactured crisis just happens to disrupt the integrity of the election.23. When there is dust rising in a high column, it is the sign of chariots advancing; when the dust is low, but spread over a wide area, it betokens the approach of infantry. When it branches out in different directions, it shows that parties have been sent to collect firewood. A few clouds of dust moving to and fro signify that the army is encamping.The Bush Administration has done a lot of dirt, and they know that time is running out to sweep it all under the rug. After all their fear mongering, it seems the tables have turned. No one expected Barack Obama to get this far, and they totally underestimated the power of a grass roots movement. 24. Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the enemy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward as if to the attack are signs that he will retreat.If it’s true that 100% of McCain’s ads are negative, that’s probably why he’s decided to retreat from Michigan, and may do so in Pennsylvania. They’ve turned out to be bad investments. Go figure.25. When the light chariots come out first and take up a position on the wings, it is a sign that the enemy is forming for battle.Palin is definitely a feather-weight. But, is the McCain base passionate enough about her to fight? Bill O’Reilly is still screaming his lungs out at liberals who are charitable enough to go on his show. But, can he do the same to a fellow rightie about THEIR mistakes? Elizabeth Hasselbeck found herself returning to criticism of Obama before she could even begin to defend Sarah Palin!26. Peace proposals unaccompanied by a sworn covenant indicate a plot.Not long ago, there was some mention that Bush was finally willing to agree on a withdrawal from Iraq plan. The mention was brief, and not well substantiated. So far, McCain and Palin do not have a plan for withdrawal either. At the VP debate, Palin took words right out of Bush’s mouth when she talked about “premature surrender”. 27. When there is much running about and the soldiers fall into rank, it means that the critical moment has come.I’m sure that most of troops are serving our country as best as they can. But, word on the street is they’re voting for Obama 6 to 1. So, they must want to come home. The time to start redeployment is 6 years ago, but NOW is better late than never. 28. When some are seen advancing and some retreating, it is a lure.Whether it was intentional or not, the divided democratic primary between Obama and Clinton was quite alluring to the Republicans. They even went so far as to try to exploit it by picking Sarah Palin for VP. But, when they eventually lose, most people will look past everything wrong with McCain and his campaign and blame it on poor little rich girl Sarah. 29. When the soldiers stand leaning on their spears, they are faint from want of food.Obviously, Bush war policies have done little to keep up the morale of our troops. Imagine being a soldier in the war, so tired and over-worked, and easily distracted that you let your guard down at the worst possible time and one or more of your comrades is killed or injured as a result. 30. If those who are sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, the army is suffering from thirst.Cronyism is another hallmark of the Bush/Cheney regime that I’ll be happy to say good bye to. I wonder how much of our deficit and war spending has gone to no good, no-bid contractors who help to keep our troops thirsty? 31. If the enemy sees an advantage to be gained and makes no effort to secure it, the soldiers are exhausted.Maybe the reason why we haven’t had another major terrorist attack on American soil is because terrorists know that our military is stretched so thin, that we would be forced to retaliate with other deadly weapons, maybe even nuclear or biological. Nobody trusts that Bush will refrain from total lawlessness or harm to others anymore. 32. If birds gather on any spot, it is unoccupied.Clamor by night betokens nervousness.Maybe the reason why the stock market is going up and down so drastically is because nobody has any liquidity, and all the banks are unoccupied of any real money. So, based on what the news of the day is, the birds on the floor of the exchange nervously get depressed and the happy, and then depressed again. 33. If there is disturbance in the camp, the general's authority is weak. If the banners and flags are shifted about, sedition is afoot. If the officers are angry, it means that the men are weary.34. When an army feeds its horses with grain and kills its cattle for food, and when the men do not hang their cooking-pots over the camp-fires, showing that they will not return to their tents, you may know that they are determined to fight to the death. 35. The sight of men whispering together in small knots or speaking in subdued tones points to disaffection amongst the rank and file.The media spent a lot of time covering the McCain campaigns spin that Obama didn’t visit the troops. They need to start covering the stories of what it’s like to be a soldier in this war, from the soldier's perspective. They need to investigate in earnest why soldiers and Veterans choosing Obama over the “war-hero”.36. Too frequent rewards signify that the enemy is at the end of his resources; too many punishments betray a condition of dire distress.Why are we rewarding the lowly bastards who got us into this economic mess? Why are peaceful protesters punished so brutally?37. To begin by bluster, but afterwards to take fright at the enemy's numbers, shows a supreme lack of intelligence.Lack of intelligence got Bush elected, and re-elected. Lack of intelligence got us into this war. Regardless of the bitter-gate/elitism claims against Obama, it will be his abundance of intelligence, and raising awareness and understanding of the issues among the masses that will get him elected and get us out of this war.38. When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.Politically, some conservatives may be ready for real bipartisan government, due to the horrendous failures of the current Republican administration. They will be handsomely rewarded under an Obama administration. But, we will all wallow in misery if Bush should actually win a third term.39. If the enemy's troops march up angrily and remain facing ours for a long time without either joining battle or taking themselves off again, the situation is one that demands great vigilance and circumspection.Time is of the essence for the Bush/Cheney regime. We the people have suffered 8 long years of their tyranny. We people of color have suffered for centuries. We women have suffered for millennia. Now is the time for us all to rise up. After being spied on and conspired against, let us turn the tables of vigilance and circumspection around. 40. If our troops are no more in number than the enemy, that is amply sufficient; it only means that no direct attack can be made. What we can do is simply to concentrate all our available strength, keep a close watch on the enemy, and obtain reinforcements.Thank God we Democrats, Independents, and Obamicans outnumber the Republicans this time! The polls are now in Obama’s favor, but that’s even without counting the opinions and data of people like me who only have a cell phone, and have only been old enough to vote in one presidential election until now. 41. He who exercises no forethought but makes light of his opponents is sure to be captured by them.A wise, but sometimes mean woman once said something to the effect of, “I have the experience to lead. Senator McCain has experience. Obama has a speech”. I wonder just what their position will be in President Obama’s administration? We all know they’ve got plenty of experience in public service! 42. If soldiers are punished before they have grown attached to you, they will not prove submissive; and, unless submissive, then will be practically useless. If, when the soldiers have become attached to you, punishments are not enforced, they will still be unless.The McCain camp’s army has been punished with his reckless, disorganized, non-message havin’, Obama message stealin’, suspend-me-whenever, pull-out-wherever campaign. And, whoever prepped Sarah Palin for her only few network TV interviews needs to punished ASAP! 43. Therefore soldiers must be treated in the first instance with humanity, but kept under control by means of iron discipline. This is a certain road to victory.Bush got the “instance” and the “iron” part right, but the “humanity” and the “discipline” have been abused and neglected. 44. If in training soldiers commands are habitually enforced, the army will be well-disciplined; if not, its discipline will be bad.I was shocked to hear John McCain bring up the issue of torture in his first debate, but not quite as shocked as watching Sarah Palin have the nerve to bring up the media in hers. Their hypocrisy is the exact opposite of discipline. 45. If a general shows confidence in his men but always insists on his orders being obeyed, the gain will be mutualBarack Obama has consistently showed confidence in the intellect and the compassion of the American people. He has lead a campaign on the high-road, and disciplined surrogates who got disrespectful, regardless of if what they said was true. After he wins the next two debates, and ultimately the presidency, the gain will be mutual for our country and for the world, for our present and for our future.

Who's Your Daddy?

Nellieyah — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:55:20 EDT

So, now you gonna run home to Poppy? Hiding behind the Bushes like a little flower. I thought your old man was some kind of patriarchal, patriotic, warrior hero? Don't you want to make him proud? How could he be, when his son is hiding? When his son is running away from a fair fight for what he believes in? I don't know about you, but I know who my Father Is.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu - Chapter 8 of 13

Nellieyah — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 02:46:55 EDT

VIII. VARIATION IN TACTICS1. Sun Tzu said: In war, the general receives his commands from the sovereign, collects his army and concentrates his forcesBarack Obama is the candidate for the people, of the people, and by the people. I only hope that as the leader of the Democratic Party, he pushes hard for some kind of hearings and/or transparency with the latest Bush disaster, the economy, before Congress starts shelling out money. I’ve noticed that Sarah Palin no longer dominates the news cycle, now that the issues can no longer be ignored by the media. And, everybody knows that the economy is not McCain’s strong suite. Now, if only Obama and Biden can keep the focus on this all important issue, and tie it in to the others, like the war, healthcare, and education…In a way that even the most racist voters will have to agree with. Then, they can collect the one demographic that’s been almost impossible to win over, and concentrate all the forces. 2. When in difficult country, do not encamp. In country where high roads intersect, join hands with your allies. Do not linger in dangerously isolated positions. In hemmed-in situations, you must resort to stratagem. In desperate position, you must fight.McCain has made many mistakes throughout this campaign, but I think his mistakes involving the economy will be the most memorable. First, he tells the truth in the worst way, by admitting that the economy is not his strength. Then, for purely political reasons he’s starts acting like however little he’s got going for him with the economy, it’s way better than whatever Obama has, lying and hiding the facts all the while. So now, he’s left himself without allies in the right-wing world of deregulation and corporate executives, while at the same time failing to convince the left-wing that he’s really all for oversight and regulation, in the interest of the common folk/taxpayers. Lies and spin are his only stratagem, and now things are getting truly desperate. After the fight (i.e. debate) this Friday night, it will be that much clearer why we need to elect Barack Obama president.3. There are roads which must not be followed, armies which must be not attacked, towns which must not be besieged, positions which must not be contested, commands of the sovereign which must not be obeyed.Either McCain wants to follow down Bush-Cheney Road, or he doesn’t have a choice, because they’re forcing him to. Either McCain doesn’t know that the world needs American diplomacy more than it needs American militancy, or he just doesn’t care. Either McCain is okay to stay in Iraq indefinitely, or he’s counting on his own retirement or death to precede any official end to our occupation. Either McCain thinks that Barack Obama is perfectly qualified to be president (i.e ready to lead), or he knows that Sarah Palin isn’t. Either McCain is for us, or he’s against us. 4. The general who thoroughly understands the advantages that accompany variation of tactics knows how to handle his troops.Barack Obama has already changed the political game, for good! Through all the challenges, the criticisms, and the outright playa hatin’, he continues to break records for grassroots organizing, crowd sizes, fundraising, and states put into play. 5. The general who does not understand these, may be well acquainted with the configuration of the country, yet he will not be able to turn his knowledge to practical account.Because John McCain’s star power is self-centered and egotistical, he cannot truly inspire people. Everybody wants to be a hero, like maybe the first black president. But, nobody actually WANTS to be a POW. Everybody wants to be thought of as unique and independent, like maybe the only presidential candidate to get the majority donations from average citizens, in small amounts. But, nobody actually WANTS to be an outcast in their own political party, regardless of the trendy labels used like “maverick”. Hence, nobody really wants to see McCain win (if you figure that corporations do not have genuine person-hood). 6. So, the student of war who is unversed in the art of war of varying his plans, even though he be acquainted with the Five Advantages, will fail to make the best use of his men.How will the war hero fail to win the biggest political battle of his lifetime? John McCain will fail due to his own ignorance and cowardice. Ignorance of the people’s needs, nationally and internationally. Cowardice to the Bush regime’s demands for longevity. 7. Hence in the wise leader's plans, considerations of advantage and of disadvantage will be blended together.Barack Obama’s debate performance is bound to get a lot of playa hatin’ reviews afterward. The media’s coverage of him has been extensive by all accounts, but about 70% negative by some accounts. So, if Obama can get a good line using the opposition’s terminology, like the “lipstick-gate” case, then the media will be forced to cover both sides. When the media actually covers John McCain or Sarah Palin in earnest, they lose out. 8. If our expectation of advantage be tempered in this way, we may succeed in accomplishing the essential part of our schemes.I’m now convinced that this election is not close because half of the nation is self-destructive. It is a close race because half of the nation is gullible to corporate media propaganda. The media could have stopped if not slowed down the build up to the war. The media could have shamed the Bush administration into resignation, or drummed up support for impeachment, just based on the failures of the government’s Hurricane Katrina response alone. Now, they’re going along with an administration that just yesterday refused to validate the fact that the economy has been in a recession of any kind. But, today this same media is reporting the desperate need for the largest government bailout of the private sector in history, a clear indicator that these are the worst economic times since the Great Depression. If Obama is to win, it will be by cleverly besting the media, as well as his opponents. 9. If, on the other hand, in the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune.As an optimist, I’ve been waiting patiently for the day when the media would be honest, and ethical. But, the realist deep inside me says that this happening would be too much like “right”. According to corporate media, Bush can do no “wrong”. Therefore the antithesis of Bush, Barack Obama, can do no “right”. It reminds me of an old R&B song that says, “If lovin’ you is wrong, I don’t want to be right”. 10. Reduce the hostile chiefs by inflicting damage on them; and make trouble for them, and keep them constantly engaged; hold out specious allurements, and make them rush to any given point.The media titans must be remembered. They were the ones who announced that Florida went for Bush in 2000, and as a result, they were the ones who shaped the last 8 years. It didn’t matter how people actually voted. Recounts were not the issue. It was all a matter of getting the ideas and images and propaganda out to the masses, and sticking to it. But, this movement for change is more than the titans bargained for. On the one hand, they love the ratings and the picturesque archives. But, they know they can’t just have a network announce false election results and have it stick this time. There are millions of Obama supporters that are deeply invested in this campaign, and we’re ready to stick it to them if need be. 11. The art of war teaches us to rely not on the likelihood of the enemy's not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him; not on the chance of his not attacking, but rather on the fact that we have made our position unassailable.While the media pundits are busy building up the tension and excitement for the first presidential debate, my woman’s intuition has already predicted the hatin’ that is sure to come. When Obama’s performance is excellent, the haters will say it was mediocre and that McCain came out even. When McCain’s performance is mediocre at best, but more than likely poor, haters will either ignore these facts, or make excuses. The real dandy will be if Obama says something that either catches McCain in a bald-headed lie, or at least makes him triangulate a little bit. Or, maybe he can just push one of McCain’s defensive mode buttons, or even better a hot temper button and watch McCain explode on camera like the tyred-rant he really is! 12. There are five dangerous faults which may affect a general:(1) Recklessness, which leads to destruction; (2) cowardice, which leads to capture; (3) a hasty temper, which can be provoked by insults; (4) a delicacy of honor which is sensitive to shame; (5) over-solicitude for his men, which exposes him to worry and trouble.McCain is dangerous. McCain is dangeroulsy flawed.13. These are the five besetting sins of a general, ruinous to the conduct of war.McCain knows that debate is about as much of his strong suite as is the economy. That’s why he wanted to call the shots and plant the questions, at his OWN town-hall debates with Obama. I still hear neo-cons using Obama’s refusal to do these town-hall debates as a talking point illustrating some kind of flaw. But, before Palin, McCain just had too much idle time on his hands (the devil’s playground, so they say). He knew that just scheduling the debates would give him a lot of power over a man as busy as Barack Obama. 14. When an army is overthrown and its leader slain, the cause will surely be found among these five dangerous faults. Let them be a subject of meditation.Of all the five faults, amazingly, it is cowardice that will bring McCain down. He could’ve gotten away with his recklessness, Lord knows Bush sure has. He’s infamous for a hasty temper, which the debates will hopefully make public for once and for all. But, people, especially women, can always forgive an angry man if they feel his anger is justified. Not only does McCain worship his honorable military service, but he expects us to worship his honor too. So much so, that his campaign is built on this very idea. As for pandering, he seems to be getting away with plenty, thanks to the pander-driven media. Still, it is his cowardly acceptance of everything wrong with the Bush administration, with Karl Rove politics, and with deceptive media that will cause him the greatest damage. It's what's on the inside that counts, and what goes up, must come down. So, for falsely boasting grandiose bravery, the itty-bitty coward inside will soon be exposed.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu - Chapter 7 of 13

Nellieyah — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 21:43:45 EDT

VII. MANEUVERING 1. Sun Tzu said: In war, the general receives his commands from the sovereign.Obviously, George Bush doesn’t care about what the American people want…Or, we wouldn’t be in the mess we’re in today. But, Barack Obama’s strength comes directly from we the people. The majority of American people want to bring our troops home, and the majority of Iraqis and Middle Easterner’s want us out of their land. McCain talks about “victory” and bringing our troops home with “honor and dignity”, but what has HE done to end the war or prevent another? If McCain were elected, would he be any less ignorant of the public’s outcry for peace and prosperity than his predator-cessor? 2. Having collected an army and concentrated his forces, he must blend and harmonize the different elements thereof before pitching his camp.The beautiful thing about the Obama campaign is that it brings people of all stripes together for a common cause, CHANGE. The ugly thing about the McCain campaign is that now he’s trying to steal a common cause, a social-political movement, that’s been carefully built up over time. He even went so far as to nominate Sarah Palin for VP trying to keep up the appearance of change, and progress. But, since conservatives like to conserve, and progressives like to progress, this strategy will ultimately fail to conserve the conservative base, denying the McCain camp any real progress. 3. After that, comes tactical maneuvering, than which there is nothing more difficult. The difficulty of tactical maneuvering consists in turning the devious into the direct, and misfortune into gain.It’s funny how the media portrays whatever the hell they want to about this election. They have to keep this a “tight race”, so even though Obama has been consistent this whole time, sometimes they ignore his valid criticisms of Bush/McCain and say “he’s weak”, or “he’s not hitting back hard enough”, etc…But, then they turn around and take the same constructive criticisms and label them “attacks” and “hard lines”. I say lets shine the spotlight on the media itself. Not whine, just shine. Who’s calling the shots? Why does one story get non-stop play, while other critical ISSUES get thrown under the bus? What about Sarah Palin’s “audacity of nope” attitude towards the media and we the people? What ever happened to investigative and/or unbiased JOURNALISM? 4. Thus, to take a long and circuitous route, after enticing the enemy out of the way, and though starting after him, to contrive to reach the goal before him, shows knowledge of the artifice of DEVIATION.John McCain is like a dog chasing his tail in circles. First he’s a “maverick” who stands up to his party. Then, he’s the “patriot” who puts country first like the rest of the selfish Republicans who don’t give a damn about anyone else, as if we haven’t been living in an interconnected/globalized world. Then, he’s a “reformer” who wants to change everything he’s been doing for the last decades. Barack Obama has the advantage of an unfair media though, because they’ve done him the favor of making him appear to be deviant…Meanwhile, Obama already beat McCain to the ultimate chase, CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN. 5. Maneuvering with an army is advantageous; with an undisciplined multitude, most dangerous.While Obama’s base is rather secure, and more Hillary supporters, Independents, and Republicans with conscience are coming home to democracy (a.k.a. Obama), McCain is constantly robbing the Peter of his base, in order to pay Paul.6. If you set a fully equipped army in march in order to snatch an advantage, the chances are that you will be too late. On the other hand, to detach a flying column for the purpose involves the sacrifice of its baggage and stores.McCain’s pick of Palin to rally his patchwork base is quite frankly too little, too late. He has to give even less than he could, hiding Sarah from any media scrutiny, or only appearing himself with his “hottie” at his side, lest people walk out on his old ass like workers on strike. Also, time has not been kind to Sarah Palin’s baggage. As the honorable Erykah Badu once said, “Bag lady, you gon’ miss yo’ bus. You can’t hurry up, ‘cause you got too much stuff”. 7. Thus, if you order your men to roll up their buff-coats, and make forced marches without halting day or night, covering double the usual distance at a stretch, doing a hundred LI in order to wrest an advantage, the leaders of all your three divisions will fall into the hands of the enemy.McCain seems to have forced Sarah to march into the biggest mistake of her life. When they lose the election, and the truth has finally come to light, what kind of humiliated life will she return to? How could she live with her interview with Charlie Gibson when there’s no longer an active propaganda cover-up of her utter failure? Even worse, what if they should win? She will either have a nervous break down, or together they will cause the country so much ruin, that impeachment will be back on table. After the impeachment boots them out of office, Obama-Biden can take their rightful place in the highest offices of the land. 8. The stronger men will be in front, the jaded ones will fall behind, and on this plan only one-tenth of your army will reach its destination.Apparently, McCain would rather win an election exploiting the fears of evangelicals than to uphold the integrity of the most powerful democratic nation in the world. So, he put them out in front as the stronger part of his base. Now, the moderate republicans, fiscal conservatives, and independents are bound to fall behind. 9. If you march fifty LI in order to outmaneuver the enemy, you will lose the leader of your first division, and only half your force will reach the goal.10. If you march thirty LI with the same object, two-thirds of your army will arrive.Sarah Palin is such a long shot for the Vice-Presidency, there’s got to be some kind of law against them actually being elected like this. Or, at least some kind of law against the monopolized media that is selling us lies and propaganda, just like they sold us a “war on terror”. I’m looking forward to the Obama-Biden reform of the status quo, because they really do put country first, country meaning the land of we the people. 11. We may take it then that an army without its baggage-train is lost; without provisions it is lost; without bases of supply it is lost.Lost is what must have happened to McCain’s marbles when he decided he didn’t need the intelligent 3 quarters of the nation’s support in order to govern the whole. Lost are the revenues the media could be making if they would only support Barack Obama’s celebrity and stop demonizing it. 12. We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors.The media loves to focus on the polls that say “it’s a dead heat”. But, so little attention is paid to the polls from abroad that say the rest of the world wants Obama to be our next president. I just don’t see how McCain or Palin can claim to reform the Bush doctrine when to date they’re still ignoring our global neighbors. Even worse, in demonizing Obama’s international popularity, there are in essence demonizing the rest of the world. At least Bush kept his “axis of evil” to just a few countries. Gosh! 13. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country--its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps.I hear Palin lied about her trip to Iraq. That her passport is anorexic, or maybe just bulimic, since she had to throw some travel up. How dare the right wing, corporate media compare her experience to Obama’s, when he’s traveled to every corner of this country! He’s sacrificed so much of his quality time with his family and friends, and rest and relaxation for himself, getting to know the land and the people so intimately. Also, today’s big John McCain news is that he totally doesn’t know what he’s talking about when it comes to world geography, world leaders, etc…14. We shall be unable to turn natural advantage to account unless we make use of local guides. Maybe Sarah Palin should take a look at the Military Commissions Act of 2006. Then, she might understand how the Bush doctrine treats the locals(of our nation and abroad) like enemy combatants, worthy of arbitrary detention without habeas corpus, or due process. She might not be so eager to send her son off to war, knowing that the locals might follow suite. By the way, I noticed her first interview fell on 9/11, a day McCain vowed to suspend his campaign, out of respect. I think it says she’s either not genuinely a candidate for VP, i.e. she’s not qualified, or that they have so little respect for 9/11 as to exploit it for political gain, or both. 15. In war, practice dissimulation, and you will succeed.We Obama supporters have to act like we don’t have offices in every corner of every state. We have to pretend like the media is leftist or at least unbiased. We have to make like we’re stupid enough to believe that four more years of the Bush doctrine are acceptable. We have to appear to agree that the polls are actually accounting for the huge block of new voters, and young voters without landlines. But, most importantly, we must feign acceptance of the notion that Sarah Palin is qualified to be president of the United States of Amerykah! 16. Whether to concentrate or to divide your troops, must be decided by circumstances. This election, unity will conquer division, and hope will conquer fear. From the hatred for Bush’s administration, and its terrible stain on our history, love will conquer all. 17. Let your rapidity be that of the wind, your compactness that of the forest.The only wind energy John McCain has in store is the kind he breaks from the crack of his ass. Guess the old fart really does believe in natural gas. But seriously, Barack Obama does have a plan to make use of alternative energy, like wind energy. And, he sure has made a swift move from the 2004 DNC headliner to the 2008 nomination acceptance speech. The crowd at Mile High Stadium was definitely compact! 18. In raiding and plundering be like fire, in immovability like a mountain.Sarah Palin may have lit the GOP fire, but the truth being revealed will cause her popularity to burn down to nothing and eventually flame out. So, forget what ya’ heard… Obama’s momentum ain’t going nowhere!19. Let your plans be dark and impenetrable as night, and when you move, fall like a thunderbolt.Part of the reason I chose to share these ideas and strategies through this ancient, complex, oriental text is because I knew it would be too intellectual for your average neo-con. As for any professionals, I got lightning up my sleeve if they really want some. 20. When you plunder a countryside, let the spoil be divided amongst your men; when you capture new territory, cut it up into allotments for the benefit of the soldiery.Bush and the gang have been far too greedy with Iraq’s surplus. So much so, that they may have an international war crimes court waiting for them when they FINNALLY leave office. Who will come to their defense, the military? Hee hee hahh hah hah…21. Ponder and deliberate before you make a move.Stealing the election wont work this time. We’re fired up and ready to fight for what’s right. This time we the people think we have a right to move up in the world. 22. He will conquer who has learnt the artifice of deviation. Such is the art of maneuvering.Neo-cons are not used to liberals mastering the art of war. They thought they could beat up on us forever and ever. Now that we’ve built an army, and we’re fighting back, they’re making stupid moves left and right. Sarah Palin was a reaction to the Democratic primary, and quite by the Karl Rove book. But, oh how sweet it is to have a presidential candidate who is the author of books like, “The Audacity of Hope”!23. The Book of Army Management says: On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough: hence the institution of gongs and drums. Nor can ordinary objects be seen clearly enough: hence the institution of banners and flags.24. Gongs and drums, banners and flags, are means whereby the ears and eyes of the host may be focused on one particular point.25. The host thus forming a single united body, is it impossible either for the brave to advance alone, or for the cowardly to retreat alone. This is the art of handling large masses of men.I think we should literally start making more noise as a group at Obama rallies. Start chanting march songs and protest songs and cheers together. Either before or after Obama wins, there should be a holiday with a great parade and a marching band. We may not be in the military, but we have to find ways to bring the same spirit of fighting and camaraderie. I’ll never forget when in 2004 Michael Moore came to Madison for a big rally on the lake, just before the election. I couldn’t believe that Bush protesters showed up to yell over Mr. Moore’s speech, refusing to allow us to peacefully assemble. Looking back, I realize how powerful their group think and chant was, because I still get chills whenever I hear “4 more years! 4 more years!” 26. In night-fighting, then, make much use of signal-fires and drums, and in fighting by day, of flags and banners, as a means of influencing the ears and eyes of your army.After 9/11, I thought we were asking for trouble, everybody putting up a gazillion American flags and all. I thought the most patriotic thing we could do would be to prevent terrorism through diplomacy and humanitarian efforts. So, I wasn’t proud of our new ultra-isolationist/egocentric flag waving. But, when I seen the crowd at Obama’s acceptance speech in Denver, I was so overjoyed to see all those gazillion flags waving! Flags held up by people of all ages, ethnicities, and kinds. That was All-American! 27. A whole army may be robbed of its spirit; a commander-in-chief may be robbed of his presence of mind.Bush’s war and his foreign policies have literally robbed the military of its might. Let the Republicans say something different, if they want to look foolish and naïve. 28. Now a soldier's spirit is keenest in the morning; by noonday it has begun to flag; and in the evening, his mind is bent only on returning to camp.I’m sure that the vast majority of the military men and women are proud to serve. But, as time has passed, even the most staunch war supporters have had to concede the notion of “victory”. I’m sure the majority of the troops would rather return home to be with their families, and REALLY protect and serve THEIR country. 29. A clever general, therefore, avoids an army when its spirit is keen, but attacks it when it is sluggish and inclined to return. This is the art of studying moods.I hate to say it, but I doubt the reason why we haven’t had another major terrorist attack is because the Bush administration has done a good job of protecting us. I say this because they’re still attacking in Europe and Asia and abroad. I think they are just simply waiting for us to self destruct, or at least weaken so much that it makes their terrorist job easier. Only a new administration and a new approach to terrorism can really protect us.30. Disciplined and calm, to await the appearance of disorder and hubbub amongst the enemy:--this is the art of retaining self-possession.Every now and again, people mention Osama bin Laden. Or, that he may still be hiding on the border of Pakistan and Afghanistan. This is shameful, for all the lives and money we’ve invested into so-called homeland security. Bin Laden may be able to claim credit for something even worse than 9/11, and what will be the government’s excuse then? 31. To be near the goal while the enemy is still far from it, to wait at ease while the enemy is toiling and struggling, to be well-fed while the enemy is famished:--this is the art of husbanding one's strength.The goal is to change the way our government works so that these terrible atrocities cannot happen again. We must elect Barack Obama so that we don’t have to live in fear, constantly terrorized by our own government just for political and economic exploitation. 32. To refrain from intercepting an enemy whose banners are in perfect order, to refrain from attacking an army drawn up in calm and confident array:--this is the art of studying circumstances.Although the media calls the Obama campaign’s current status “attack mode”, I know better. Obama is simply telling the truth, whether it sounds more aggressive or not, that’s all it is. And, it’s working, because McCain’s camp is not in perfect order. Palin is not calm and confident. We already know the circumstances.33. It is a military axiom not to advance uphill against the enemy, nor to oppose him when he comes downhill.Time will stop the McCain campaign dead in its tracks. We need not struggle for too much longer.34. Do not pursue an enemy who simulates flight; do not attack soldiers whose temper is keen.Even though the media has been so favorable to McCain, and especially to Palin, if they want to keep the show going, keep the race tight, they will be forced to make headlines. The more news we get on Sarah Palin, the less appealing she will be. Unlike Barack Obama, Palin doesn’t have a genuine charisma that genuinely inspires people. We Obama supporters are not doing this for Obama or his personal career success. We do it because our very lives depend on it. Our democracy could either be greater than ever, or worse than ever before. Our planet may swallow us whole if we don’t begin to stop polluting it so badly. The future generations of the human race depend on this critical election.35. Do not swallow bait offered by the enemy. Do not interfere with an army that is returning home.The debates are coming soon. The neo-cons will be predictable, blaming the media, sexism, racism, elitism, un-patriotism, terrorism, and any other isms they can think of to escape the truth and altruism. But, since they’ve fought so hard to evade the truth, it will be new, unknown, and less predictable for them to work with. Herein lies our advantage. 36. When you surround an army, leave an outlet free. Do not press a desperate foe too hard.I think that Obama and Biden, being the gentlemen that they are, will back their opponents into a corner, but still allow one reasonable outlet to save face, the truth. 37. Such is the art of warfare.

Ghost Writer

Nellieyah — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:56:23 EDT

I can't sleep at night because the spirits keep calling me. The ones who can't rest in peace. They're desperate for someone living and sensitive like me to understand exactly why they're deceased. They want their unfinished business to become my business. They need their untold story to be told. Sometimes they're angels and saints, sometimes demons and sinners. But, they're especially the really young souls and the really old. Like the babies who die from poverty. Or the teens who succumb to depression. Like the middle-aged drug addicts who die from plenty. Or the many victims of some old man's aggression. Like the civilians blown to bits by war devices. Or the soldiers taken out by enemy fire. Like the AIDS baby whose mother couldn't afford drug prices. Or the senior who couldn't afford a good nurse for hire. They roam the spirit world searching for a portal to the mundane. When they're not remembered correctly or loved deeply enough it drives them insane. So, they remain, long after their remains are gone. Long after their time here on earth is done. Still, I am the medium that gives light to the dark, making a deadly, unjust world a little brighter. I am the voice giving life breath to the dead. I am the legendary ghost writer. Nellieyah Nicoshiana Ngai

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 6 of 13

Nellieyah — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 02:12:00 EDT

VI. WEAK POINTS AND STRONG1. Sun Tzu said: Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted.Last week’s Democratic convention was great! The weather was good, the speeches were great, and the crowd at Mile High Stadium was spectacular! But, the Republicans were not so lucky, or even skilled. Trying to wait for Obama to pick his VP choice first, they hastily chose Gov. Palin, they couldn’t party or get too excited on opening night, or even since because of Hurricanes Gustav, Hanna, Ike, and Josephine, and protesters from the crowd just interrupted McCain’s speech tonight. 2. Therefore the clever combatant imposes his will on the enemy, but does not allow the enemy's will to be imposed on him.So, the Republicans have been doing everything they can to play catch up. First they dismiss and invalidate the Democratic convention’s successes, especially Obama’s speech, and then they try to elevate and inflate their own, esp. Gov. Palin’s speech. 3. By holding out advantages to him, he can cause the enemy to approach of his own accord; or, by inflicting damage, he can make it impossible for the enemy to draw near.Obama was right to pass up Hillary for VP, for several reasons. Mainly because she wasn’t willing to show the humility, or team spirit that genuinely comes from the heart. So, even though she probably could have helped to win the election, governing the country after that would have been less than what it could be with a team player of impeccable experience like Joe Biden. The Republican’s thought they’d seized an opportunity, by trying to inspire bitterness and hopelessness in Hillary supporters, and play the sexism card. So, they went so far as to nominate a virtually unknown Governor, from one of the most sparsely populated states, with virtually no relevant experience, and a boatload of controversy, “Barracuda” bulldog Palin. I can’t wait for the VP debate with the venerable Gwen Ifill (whose questions will be better than most), because Palin’s performance will pale in comparison to Biden’s…She won’t even come near him. 4. If the enemy is taking his ease, he can harass him; if well supplied with food, he can starve him out; if quietly encamped, he can force him to move.The Rovebots are all giddy about Palin’s ability to get the God, Guns, and Gays (3G) gang revved up. So much so, that they forgot to study up on women’s leadership psychology. Most women resent other high-strung, amBITCHous, attractive women more than they wish to emulate them. Have you ever noticed how many reality TV shows are dedicated to female rivalry, like “America’s Next Top Model”, or “The Bachelor”, or “The Pussy Cat Dolls”? I guarantee there are at least 5 of Palin’s female colleagues, subordinates, family members (esp. in-laws), or plain old rivals who wont be intimidated by the neo-con’s efforts to silence their dissent. Women are already talking about how irresponsible and heartless mother she must be to take on the greatest responsibilities in the world, with so many family obligations. She’s either going to have to neglect her family, or neglect her office as VP, or President. 5. Appear at points which the enemy must hasten to defend;march swiftly to places where you are not expected.I recognize the Palin personality profile quite well. She’s a hypocrite extraordinaire, and an ego maniac, obsessed with keeping up appearances. That’s probably why she didn’t tell anyone about her down syndrome pregnancy until she was 7 months along. Though she claims to be no different than a bulldog, i.e. tough, if her ego/self image is attacked in the right way, her weakness and insecurity will become apparent. Just like the wicked witch in “Snow White”, when she asks “Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” the mirror better respond “Why you are” lest she turn into the old hag she really is and seek to poison the real PYT. 6. An army may march great distances without distress, if it marches through country where the enemy is not.Palin was designed to rally “the base” (English for Al Qaeda), whom are usually low-educated, low-income, 3G voters. So, they must think they’ve got the big CEO’s and wealthy Republicans in the bag. Obama-Biden may be able to appeal to those wealthy, educated Republicans, who have already been caught complaining about the foolishness of the Palin choice off the record. By appealing to their intelligence (as well as their greed for wealth), we liberals may be able to divide and conquer the neo-cons, or at least the conservatives. Because they know that Bush’s policies are weakening the dollar, and they understand the consequences of homeland insecurity. Rich Republicans houses are also being lost to natural disasters and they know that more terrorist attacks and more wars are likely to come with a McCain administration. 7. You can be sure of succeeding in your attacks if you only attack places which are undefended. You can ensure the safety of your defense if you only hold positions that cannot be attacked.So far, McCain has not defended the hypocrisy of his votes against veterans, children, minorities, and renewable energy, because hypocrisy is not defendable. Palin has also been against helping families with special needs children, teen pregnancy prevention, and protecting wildlife. All Obama-Biden have to do is show how much they HAVE supported these issues, and how they’ve benefited these people, and it will be a safe ride to the White House.8. Hence that general is skillful in attack whose opponent does not know what to defend; and he is skillful in defense whose opponent does not know what to attack.When McCain was asked how many houses he and Bambi owned, he couldn’t answer or defend his multiple cribs. If the media would simply ask about any of the multiple flip flops or the disgraceful neglect of the vulnerable groups listed above, he will not have any decent defense. And, so far, everything they attack Obama for, which is everything, has failed to keep people from having hope, or seeking change. 9. O divine art of subtlety and secrecy! Through you we learn to be invisible, through you inaudible; and hence we can hold the enemy's fate in our hands.Fox news is anything but subtle in their biased coverage and unfair attacks. Once they find an attack point, which has to be compact specifically for the purpose of proliferation and repetition, they stick with it regardless of its merit. But, somewhere there’s a star waiting to be born…, waiting to break a big story that goes down in history. I wasn’t surprised when it was Katie Couric (whose popularity has been questioned) who asked McCain about the houses. I won’t be surprised when the biggest Palin gaffe story breaks either. 10. You may advance and be absolutely irresistible, if you make for the enemy's weak points; you may retire and be safe from pursuit if your movements are more rapid than those of the enemy.Hypocrisy is their weakest point. They will counter with the “flip flop” model, but hypocrisy is so much worse. 11. If we wish to fight, the enemy can be forced to an engagement even though he be sheltered behind a high rampart and a deep ditch. All we need do is attack some other place that he will be obliged to relieve.As soon as they really go for the sexism card, through out an ace of hypocrisy on McCain’s part. He’s been known to tell sexist jokes. How’s his ex-wife doing? Did a supporter actually break Cindy’s wrist? How has he ever supported battered women, or rape victims? Can either McCain or Palin do what Jesus would do and forgive their enemies, or “turn the other cheek”?12. If we do not wish to fight, we can prevent the enemy from engaging us even though the lines of our encampment be merely traced out on the ground. All we need do is to throw something odd and unaccountable in his way.Why didn’t McCain do anything about the shabby state of Walter Reed before that story broke? 13. By discovering the enemy's dispositions and remaining invisible ourselves, we can keep our forces concentrated, while the enemy's must be divided.Thankfully, Obama has always been respectful of his opponents, always criticizing their actions, not their personality. Once the hypocrisy ace is played the right way, their camp will be pointing fingers at each other.14. We can form a single united body, while the enemy must split up into fractions. Hence there will be a whole pitted against separate parts of a whole, which means that we shall be many to the enemy's few.They thrive on the 3G’s of separation. But, what if you could get the staunch religious-right people(God) to see the war and the foreign policies(Guns) the created it as amoral and wrong? Would Jesus extraordinarily rendition somebody? Does God have a justice system of guilty until proven innocent? When Jesus was sentenced to a torturous death by crucifixion, was that justified? Is it possible that Iraqis have a “right to life”? What happens to the souls of children killed by our war?15. And if we are able thus to attack an inferior force with a superior one, our opponents will be in dire straits.Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. succeeded in winning more civil rights because he appealed to peoples moral sensibilities. It was the combination of policemen and firefighters and whites in general being forced to attack innocent people so often AND the images of this amoral behavior being captured and exposed that led to change. It was the combination of an endless war, and therefore and endless draft of young cannon fodder, AND the images of the Vietnam war being captured and exposed often that led to change. 16. The spot where we intend to fight must not be made known; for then the enemy will have to prepare against a possible attack at several different points; and his forces being thus distributed in many directions, the numbers we shall have to face at any given point will be proportionately few.The WWJD card can be played at anytime, for any reason, and let a religious neo-con try to challenge it… I wish they would! The hypocrisy card can also be played for any number of issues or votes…So, bring it!17. For should the enemy strengthen his van, he will weaken his rear; should he strengthen his rear, he will weaken his van; should he strengthen his left, he will weaken his right; should he strengthen his right, he will weaken his left. If he sends reinforcements everywhere, he will everywhere be weak.18. Numerical weakness comes from having to prepare against possible attacks; numerical strength, from compelling our adversary to make these preparations against us.If each one of the 2 million Obama supporters played either the hypocrisy card or the WWJD card by contacting one media outlet, just one time, we’d be a force to be reckoned with. The campaign should host a nationwide effort, just like they do with walks, canvasses, and phone banks. If the Republicans try to steal this idea, they will fail miserably, because they already control the media, and they’ve already sent out every vile viral email full of lies about Obama. 19. Knowing the place and the time of the coming battle, we may concentrate from the greatest distances in order to fight.There will be debates soon, and Obama-Biden will win them handily.20. But if neither time nor place be known, then the left wing will be impotent to succor the right, the right equally impotent to succor the left, the van unable to relieve the rear, or the rear to support the van. How much more so if the furthest portions of the army are anything under a hundred LI apart, and even the nearest are separated by several LI!But, with the right use of the hypocrisy card or the WWJD card, the debates will be spontaneous and on-going. If we can force them to hold a press conference at the drop of a hat to clear the air, like Obama has had to do on more the one occasion, it will be the sweetest revenge. 21. Though according to my estimate the soldiers of Yueh exceed our own in number, that shall advantage them nothing in the matter of victory. I say then that victory can be achieved.Obama is still the underdog in this race. Obama is still the real agent of change. Gov. Palin’s strength lies in holding on to tradition at all costs. Once people realize this, her being a female will be less relevant. 22. Though the enemy be stronger in numbers, we may prevent him from fighting. Scheme so as to discover his plans and the likelihood of their success.23. Rouse him, and learn the principle of his activity or inactivity. Force him to reveal himself, so as to find out his vulnerable spots.24. Carefully compare the opposing army with your own, so that you may know where strength is superabundant and where it is deficient.Many people know OF Karl Rove’s playbook, but few people actually know it, thus it continues to work. So, here’s a crash course of its contents: 1.Find an enemy 2.Villify the enemy 3. Use simple terminology, esp. 2 word talking points 4. Proliferate the propaganda 5. Deny any wrong-doing 6. Put a spin on anything challenging the propaganda 7. Avoid all penetrating questions, independent thought, dissent, or investigation whenever possible. The weak point is that it’s all propaganda and lies, which is ultimately depressing, and depressed people are ultimately weak. Obama only uses truth, hope, and change as his weapons. People always can, and always will seek the truth, for it is their purpose in life to do so. People need hope for survival. And, change is inevitable.25. In making tactical dispositions, the highest pitch you can attain is to conceal them; conceal your dispositions, and you will be safe from the prying of the subtlest spies, from the machinations of the wisest brains.The hard part is telling the truth without speaking, or inspiring people without selling, or changing things by just staying the same as you always have been. 26. How victory may be produced for them out of the enemy's own tactics--that is what the multitude cannot comprehend.There are reasons why Gore lost in 2000, and Kerry lost in 2004. These are the same reasons why Obama will win in 2008. It’s like turning lemons into lemonade.27. All men can see the tactics whereby I conquer,but what none can see is the strategy out of which victory is evolved.28. Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances.Karl Rove has one playbook, tried and true, and his followers will follow it religiously. But, Obama-Biden will not be constrained to such predictable tactics, because they’ve got infinite grassroots supporters like myself from which to learn from and benefit from. 29. Military tactics are like unto water; for water in its natural course runs away from high places and hastens downwards.30. So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak.The neo-cons are not accustomed to the taste of their own medicine. They obviously don’t believe in Karma or the Theory of Relativity, or they wouldn’t be so abusive and neglectful. With just 2 months left to change the country and change the world, they have no time to get creative either. Their inability to change will be the end of them, because change is inevitable. 31. Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.Gore and Kerry lost because they played nice and fair, and the other team didn’t. But, its Okay, because Obama-Biden know exactly who they’re up against, and they’re gettin’ ready to make sore losers out of ‘em. 32. Therefore, just as water retains no constant shape, so in warfare there are no constant conditions.High road compared to what?33. He who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent and thereby succeed in winning, may be called a heaven-born captain.Oprah did say that Obama was “the one”! Then the Rovebot/Murderock machine quickly labeled “the one” the antichrist. Go figure. 34. The five elements (water, fire, wood, metal, earth) are not always equally predominant; the four seasons make way for each other in turn. There are short days and long; the moon has its periods of waning and waxing. Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me ‘roun’Turn me ‘roun’
Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me ‘roun’
I’m gonna wait until my change comes

Don’t let nobody turn you ‘roun’
Turn you ‘roun’
Don’t let nobody turn you ‘roun’
Wait until your change comes

I say I’m gonna hold out
Hold out, hold out
I say that I’m gonna hold out
Until my change comes

I promised the lord that I would hold out
Hold out
I promised the Lord that I would hold out
Wait until my change comes

Body Language

Nellieyah — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 15:49:14 EDT

Lips that keep on moving. Eyes that look perfectly still. Smiles that are gentle and soothing. A heart that beats as good as it feels. A back that's strong to the bone. Hands that can reach out and touch. A mind that's both creative and full grown. Ears that can hear so much. Feet that stand their ground. Knees that bend to pray. Guts that go pound for pound. Shoulder's that bear the weight. A head that's free and clear. A stomach that's both hungry for more and already satisfied. Legs that only run away from fear. A whole body that's electrified. The presence. The power. The passion. The possibilities. A temple meant to house sacred soul. The essence of expression and identity. The main character. Life's ultimate acting role.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 5 of 13

Nellieyah — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 02:19:36 EDT

V. ENERGY1. Sun Tzu said: The control of a large force is the same principle as the control of a few men: it is merely a question of dividing up their numbers.George Bush has proven that he cannot lead even a small group to do anything wholly positive and productive. His Rovian style of politics can only rally its base when it has a common enemy, such as women who choose abortion and/or gays, gun control advocates and/or peace activists, or Muslims and/or terrorists. The upcoming anniversary of Hurricane Katrina is a perfect reminder of just how much of a horrific failure of a leader Bush can be. At the time, he failed to be a commander, let alone the Commander in Chief, successfully getting the food, water, transportation, security, officials, and troops that were so desperately needed to the victims in a timely fashion. He also started an endless war that sent the National Guard away to guard another nation. Barack Obama on the other hand, may have come from humble community organizing beginnings, but with his presidential campaign he has proven that he can control “a large force”. 2. Fighting with a large army under your command is nowise different from fighting with a small one: it is merely a question of instituting signs and signals.Right now, there are a lot of pundits and poll dancers saying that Obama needs to “hit harder”, or “be more aggressive” in his campaign against McCain. They say he can’t win trying to take the high road the whole way. But, THEY have probably never been community organizers before either. When the little people, the powerless people want to take on big business, or the powers that be, an outright attack is almost suicidal. For the under dogs, their most powerful weapon is their moral authority, a.k.a. their “high road”. With the strength of numbers on their side, they can publicize the wrong-doing and/or need for change, and either shame the top dogs into power sharing, or at least protest it peacefully. 3. To ensure that your whole host may withstand the brunt of the enemy's attack and remain unshaken-- this is effected by maneuvers direct and indirect.Even though Obama has not stooped to the low level of Rovian politics, the news people still report anything he says about his opponents that happens to be both true and bad as an attack on his part. When I watch the news on TV, they always use fightin’ words to describe the Campaign ’08 news coverage. But, I think Obama’s doing well just by focusing on the issues while pointing out that John McCain’s on the wrong(Bush) side of them. 4. That the impact of your army may be like a grindstone dashed against an egg--this is effected by the science of weak points and strong.While the so-called liberals complain that Obama isn’t liberal enough, and the neo-cons paint him as dangerously liberal, I know better. When Obama did the forum at Rick Warren’s church, I was thrilled. My grandfather (a jazz musician who’s so liberal he thinks all politics is “skull duggery”) gave me a copy of “The Purpose Driven Life” and the 40 day journal companion book. In my opinion, the Bush administration is the “axis of evil” and only the forgiveness and the mercy of God will save us. I don’t see how having a Democratic president who has a strong faith in God, strong enough to respect all God’s children and their free will (made in God’s image) will hurt. Former Hillary supporters that remain anti-Obama, and other closed minded individuals also criticize Obama for making compromises with the Republican agenda, like with FISA, or the Patriot Act, or domestic drilling. But, I believe it was Hillary’s inability to compromise that lead to her failed healthcare reform, despite her position in the White House. So while many are complaining, I see it as Barack Obama taking traditional Republican strengths and weaknesses and turning them in his favor. I have no complaints with his superb intellect. 5. In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.If Barack Obama were to stoop the sub-humane Rovian tactics that McCain has so thoroughly embraced, it would be the end of his “high road”. So, he can only stick to the issues and point out the differences between were he and John McCain stand on them, and hope that people will choose the leader who is truly in their best interest. But, ultimately what will secure victory is to meet the various constituent groups where they are, and let them know that he is in their best interest. If that means going to a church to meet evangelicals, or going toward the center to meet independents and republicans, then so be it. 6. Indirect tactics, efficiently applied, are inexhaustible as Heaven and Earth, unending as the flow of rivers and streams; like the sun and moon, they end but to begin anew; like the four seasons, they pass away to return once more.With the Georgia-Russia conflict, Obama was first direct in saying that both sides need to take responsibility, and do whatever it takes to avoid World War III. Then, he was indirect in trying to meet the Georgians where they are. If elected president, he will have inexhaustible opportunities for indirect tactics, also meeting the Russians, and the French, and NATO, and everybody who’s anybody where they are. I watched the Sunday talking heads like Pawlenty criticize Obama as having changed his stance on the issue 2 or 3 times. But, I know better. Obama was just using his intelligence to discriminate between direct and indirect tactics, a.k.a. diplomacy (something Pawlenty might want to check into if he wants to be VP of MY country). 7. There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. 8. There are not more than five primary colors (blue, yellow, red, white, and black), yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen.9. There are not more than five cardinal tastes (sour, acrid, salt, sweet, bitter), yet combinations of them yield more flavors than can ever be tasted.While the Rovebots depend on separation and segregation for their survival, we Obamatrons (term used courtesy of Mike Malloy) thrive on unity. There is only one way to maintain separation, and that is by brute force and injustice. But there are infinite ways to come together. There is only one reason to believe in segregation, and that is through a selfish sense of entitlement and superiority. But, there are infinite ways to be humble and unite for infinite common causes.10. In battle, there are not more than two methods of attack--the direct and the indirect; yet these two in combination give rise to an endless series of maneuvers.The Rovebots know of only one way, direct attack. They cannot meet people where they are with indirect tactics, because they do not actually recognize people’s true identity (as creations of a Creator). Because the outside enemy is what defines their base, and the definition of the enemy usually comes from some sinful man, they cannot diplomatically address the needs of their base. These anti-diplomatic policies will be their ultimate downfall.11. The direct and the indirect lead on to each other in turn. It is like moving in a circle--you never come to an end. Who can exhaust the possibilities of their combination?Barack Obama often talks about “carrots and sticks”, meaning rewards (or at least incentives) and punishments, something Bush refuses to do. Now, McCain won’t let up on his talking points that 1)Obama opposed the surge and 2)Obama would rather lose a war to win campaign than lose a campaign to win a war. The truth is that 1)Obama rightfully opposed the war, and the surge has only given the Iraqis and opportunity to politely ask us to leave, as opposed to trying to suicide bomb their way out of occupation. 2)There is no such thing as winning a war that was started for one reason (to protect America), but is being fought now for another (to control the Middle East and their oil). Only the successful protection of America and a new energy policy, free of foreign oil or climate change can be victorious. 12. The onset of troops is like the rush of a torrent which will even roll stones along in itscourse. Apparently our ruthless occupation of a sovereign nation hasn’t gone unnoticed. Now, Russia has troops in our ally Georgia’s territory, and somehow Condi Rice has the nerve to scold them. But, our troops in the region seem to have moved even stone cold Russia to reawaken to the call of empire building. 13. The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim.McCain’s campaign has already leaked its intentions to see more war and conflict in order to boost his dismal chances of winning the presidency. That McCain is being so partial to Georgia, and saber rattling against Russia really comes as no surprise. That Bush is setting up missiles in Poland isn’t news either. But, if Congress and the international community allow yet another senseless war to happen, and the American people don’t stand up against one by electing the only candidate who knows better, i.e. Barack Obama, THAT would be news!14. Therefore the good fighter will be terrible in his onset, and prompt in his decision.Despite what the critics say, Barack Obama has brought about a social/political movement virtually overnight, based primarily on his original decision against the war. Even the Clintons had underestimated his power and stealth. In fact, it is they along with coroporate media who have helped to keep this campaign seeming long and drawn out to the point of exhaustion and absurdity. 15. Energy may be likened to the bending of a crossbow; decision, to the releasing of a trigger.We American’s are so bent out of shape by the last 8 years, that all it took for most of us is for someone like Barack Obama to come along and articulate the truth. His stance against the war is the trigger that will finally put not only the Bush administration, but the entire elitist American political system to rest.16. Amid the turmoil and tumult of battle, there may be seeming disorder and yet no real disorder at all; amid confusion and chaos, your array may be without head or tail, yet it will be proof against defeat.To the nay-sayers, I say “Yes we can!” To the polls that say it’s a close race, or even that Obama is losing, I say “Fired up and ready to go!” To the critics that say Obama isn’t what he claims to be, I say “Change we can believe in”. To those who say he and Michelle are un-American, I say “I have a dream…” 17. Simulated disorder postulates perfect discipline, simulated fear postulates courage; simulated weakness postulates strength.When it seems like Obama’s tactics aren’t good enough, he’s just the most disciplined politician we’ve seen. When it seems like Obama is losing, or at least not gaining, he’s just the strongest underdog we’ve seen. 18. Hiding order beneath the cloak of disorder is simply a question of subdivision; concealing courage under a show of timidity presupposes a fund of latent energy; masking strength with weakness is to be effected by tactical dispositions.The McCain (Bush) supporters, who have been the powerful, work hard to master the art of deception. We Obama supporters, who have been relatively powerless, must work hard to master the art of truth-telling, directly and indirectly. 19. Thus one who is skillful at keeping the enemy on the move maintains deceitful appearances, according to which the enemy will act. He sacrifices something, that the enemy may snatch at it.Obama may do things that keep the critics criticizing. But, he also keeps packing in tens of thousands of people to one place to hear him speak, and be apart of the movement for change. 20. By holding out baits, he keeps him on the march; then with a body of picked men he lies in wait for him.People are attracted to all things controversial, taboo, and forbidden. The more the media and his opponents paint Barack Obama as such, the more attractive he becomes.21. The clever combatant looks to the effect of combined energy, and does not require too much from individuals. Hence his ability to pick out the right men and utilize combined energy.Most of Obama’s contributions come from broke people like me, who have to sacrifice just to donate $25 here and there. But there are so many of us broke motherlovers that combined we’ve outdone McCain and the RNC handily. 22. When he utilizes combined energy, his fighting men become as it were like unto rolling logs or stones. For it is the nature of a log or stone to remain motionless on level ground, and to move when on a slope; if four-cornered, to come to a standstill, but if round-shaped, to go rolling down.Left a good job down in the city. Workin’ for the man every night and day. And I never lost one minute of sleep 'cause I was worried ‘bout the way things might have been. Big wheel keep on turnin’. Proud Mary keep on burnin’. Say we rollin’. Umm hmm. Rollin’ yeah. Umm Hmm. Rollin’ on the river. 23. Thus the energy developed by good fighting men is as the momentum of a round stone rolled down a mountain thousands of feet in height. So much on the subject of energy.As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “I’ve been to the Mountaintop”

The Brain Child

Nellieyah — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:47:11 EDT

Who all is responsible for the attacks? What exactly is coming next? When will we stop sitting on our butts, and lying on our backs? Where is the common sense, the decency, the respect? Why do so many dangerous people have so much power? How can the innocent live in peace? Who will these greedy bastards turn to in their final hour? What will it take for the violence to cease? Where will we live if this whole planet is crumbling? Why does profit mean more to them than humanity? How can they stand their ground when the earth is rumbling? Who exactly is behind this insanity?Whatever happened to doing the right thing, because it’s the right thing to do? When is it a good enough time for equality and fairness? Where can people tune in to get a clue about the real issue? Why have those in power been so heartless, so careless? How can we overcome the lies and see through the deceit? Who among the powerful really wants to change for the good? What if the horrible tragedy is bound to repeat? When exactly will the truth be fully understood? Where will our present course of action take us? Why haven’t we reached the democratic “Promised Land”? How can unity and strength in numbers ever break us or overtake us? The Brain Child says “Yes we can!”

Subliminal 101: The Dirty Low Down

Nellieyah — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 14:53:40 EDT

In between the lines lies a hidden message. Behind what’s out in front, is where the real show takes place. A secret place with no walls, and no boundaries. Curiosities hint at something dangerous. Too hard to know for sure. Less pure than what looks good. Behind the image, on some gut level it’s understood. The archetype, stereotype, prototype hype. Behind the illusion lies a pearl of truth. Ample examples, for example. Barack Obama is a super star, serious about ending the war. Hence, the pop rocks candy coated comparison. War monsters poppin’ off at the mouth about how sweet it is. Code words portraying the absurd. Indeed it is common not to have common sense. So, they dispense nonsense to the masses, talking trash and making cash quick. It’s so sickening, when they act like he’s “the one” profiteering, while they're steering us toward more fear and loathing. It’s a control thing. Brain washing and planting seeds of greed, for more drilling and killing by any means necessary, with no end in sight. It might be wise to see Obama’s celebrity as a blessing. As the next best thing to the truth setting us free, from business as usual, low down and dirty. Nellieyah Ngai 08-04-08

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 4 of 13

Nellieyah — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 02:03:10 EDT

IV. TACTICAL DISPOSITIONS 1. Sun Tzu said: The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.The neo-cons call their political tactics “good fighting”, but we liberals know better enough to call what they’re doing “cheating”. They do whatever it takes to guarantee that we will loose by rigging elections (among other things) in their favor. Whether it’s in owning the corporate media, or the corporate voting machines, or the corporate justices of the court, they have a bottomless pit from which to sink lower and lower into. Democrats, especially those with public personalities and media outlets, need to give the Republicans a taste of their own medicine, by using this strategy, and doing so without cheating. We must deny the corporate media’s propaganda that “this is a close race”, and use Obama’s popularity at home and abroad (and the anti-Bush sentiments that propel it) as proof that McCain doesn’t stand a chance. We must get involved in the voting process, and become the officials making sure each voter is registered, and that their vote is protected. But, above all, we must do whatever it takes to elect Barack Obama president in order for justice to be served. 2. To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.The Republicans understand this “divide and conquer” strategy far better than we Democrats do. Ever since Obama got the nomination, which was already delayed for as long as possible, I’ve heard several so-called liberals railing against him for every perceived mistake, or gaffe, with the same bitter, condescending attitudes that neo-con talking points are made of. We liberals are so frustrated with the Bush regime’s tyranny, that some of us are holding Obama accountable, simply because we know that Obama needs us, and he (unlike Bush) must listen and respond to our concerns.3. Thus the good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.If we want a Democrat in the White House, we will have to come together, and stick together no matter what tactics the Republicans and the McCain campaign use. When the McCain campaign and their unofficial media surrogates start criticizing Barack Obama, for anything, it is your Democratic duty to defend our brave leader. Even when you disagree with Obama about something, like his vote for FISA, defend him against Republican attacks. Because if the reason you disagree with the FISA bill is because of the unlawful spying and the immunity for the law breakers, than in reality you still support Obama’s policy, and Obama still represents your liberal concerns. It is Bush’s policy that you disagree with, and Obama alone cannot stop what has BEEN going on for the last 7 or 8 years in the Bush administration. Especially not while his every move, decision, or vote could be manipulated to make him look bad and lose the election. 4. Hence the saying: One may know how to conquer without being able to do it.Even former Kucinich supporters must accept the fact that his articles of impeachment are rather powerless against Bush’s brand of super powerful tyranny. Also, I met a former Hillary supporter the other day, who was still skeptical about supporting Obama, because she felt Hillary had a better healthcare plan. My response was that being a healthcare worker, this was also a key issue for me, but that I chose to support Obama early on because the vast majority of his financial support comes from everyday people like us, whereas Hillary seemed to still be tied to big money corporate interests that have no intentions of providing affordable, universal healthcare. 5. Security against defeat implies defensive tactics; ability to defeat the enemy means taking the offensive.Personally, I find it easy to defend Barack Obama, because he’s just full of so many positive characteristics, and so few character flaws. But, the Karl Rove devotees have tried to paint any and every one of Obama’s strengths as a weaknesses, time and time again. Obama is inspirational, so they label him an “unpatriotic, muslim, who does terrorist fist bumps with his radical baby mama”. He’s eloquent, and articulate, so they say “he’s all talk and no action”. He’s charismatic and popular, so they compare him to either a slick, martini sippin' hustler, or a blond bimbo pop tart celebrity. He is respected by world leaders, so they say he’s “a novice at foreign-policy”. He’s winning against all odds, so the say “it’s dead even, a real tight race” or “that he just can't gain a bigger lead”. He’s optimistic and lighthearted about being the first African-American to make it, so they accuse him of “playing the race card”. And, so on, and so on. 6. Standing on the defensive indicates insufficient strength; attacking, a superabundance of strength.We liberals tend to be far more politically correct, and far less offensive than neo-conservatives. So, not only are we not going on the offensive against the neo-cons, but we’re defending our liberal ideologies even against Obama, should he try to move to the center on an issue or compromise with the superabundance of strength known as the Bush administration. This is the Rovian formula for Democratic Party self-destruction. 7. The general who is skilled in defense hides in the most secret recesses of the earth; he who is skilled in attack flashes forth from the topmost heights of heaven. Thus on the one hand we have ability to protect ourselves; on the other, a victory that is complete.It is time for us to come out of our hiding and take back our country by force. Instead of calling Barack Obama about his compromises with the Republicans, organize an Obama Team in your neighborhood, and help build a bigger, better Democratic party. Instead of complaining about Obama, or the latest negative talking point about him to progressive radio stations and websites, complain about McCain, or create a negative talking point about him to some conservative media outlets, which includes most of the mainstream media. Take the searchlight off of Obama’s bad, and shine the spotlight on McCain’s. 8. To see victory only when it is within the ken of the common herd is not the acme of excellence.My first presidential vote was for John Kerry and John Edwards in 2004. When they lost, I vowed to get active early on the next time around. Then Barack Obama announced he was running, and I’ve been 100% committed to helping him win ever since. Campaign kick-off house parties where being held simultaneously around the country on March 31, 2007, and I showed up to the closet one near me with a state wide campaign plan in mind. We formed a group, I became the leader, and at the next meeting, I shared a written version of my ideas with the group. Some people were shocked and almost offended that I had the audacity to expect volunteers to do the kind of extensive organizing that campaign staff would eventually do. But, now that we’re within a hundred days of the election, and the McCain campaign is getting lower down and dirtier, after an exhausting mud slinging primary, I feel confident that my grassroots organizing ideas were spot on to begin with. 9. Neither is it the acme of excellence if you fight and conquer and the whole Empire says, "Well done!"Back to Iraq for a minute, remember “Mission Accomplished!”? If not, then maybe you’ve heard McCain talking about how bad it is that Obama doesn’t give the surge a “Well done!” ? 10. To lift an autumn hair is no sign of great strength; to see the sun and moon is no sign of sharp sight;to hear the noise of thunder is no sign of a quick ear.We took over Iraq with the “shock and awe” bombing. But our weakness was made apparent the humanitarian crises that still exists today. Everyone knew Saddam was a dictator and a tyrant over his people. But, who knows anything official about 9/11 or Osama bin Laden?11. What the ancients called a clever fighter is one who not only wins, but excels in winning with ease.Any Democrat could win, after Bush’s two terms have made the Republican party so unpopular. Hillary Clinton was poised to be a traditional politician, in a women’s body, and do just that. But, Barack Obama has more of a natural born charisma and capacity for leadership. Rumors abound about what terrible things the Clintons and virtually every politician has been willing to do in order to advance their career. But, in his book, The Audacity of Hope, Obama comes right out and addresses the motivation behind his political ambitions, and it is his altruism. It’s hard to be politician lording it over your constituents, but it’s easy to be a good person helping and representing many good people. 12. Hence his victories bring him neither reputation for wisdom nor credit for courage.McCain wants to continue the war in Iraq and stay the course, but this is the dumbest most crippling policy our nation could undertake. At least Obama knew beforehand, that whatever victories we thought were coming out of this wasn’t worth the losses or the deaths that would surely result. 13. He wins his battles by making no mistakes. Making no mistakes is what establishes the certainty of victory, for it means conquering an enemy that is already defeated.McCain and his slimy neo-con helpers are desperate for Obama to genuinely mess up, or just revert back to old style campaigning. But, Obama is careful not to work hard insulting his opponents personality, or character. All he has to do is tell the truth about Bush, his failed policies and how McCain is a third term. 14. Hence the skillful fighter puts himself into a position which makes defeat impossible, and does not miss the moment for defeating the enemy.Remember that Barack Obama is the underdog of this power-struggle, no matter how the media try to spin it is “mindless celebrity” or “messianic complex”. Our team has been losing for hundreds of years now. That’s why climate change is happening. That’s why genocide is still happening. That’s why Bush has gotten this far. So, although it could get worse in terms of suffering, in terms of power, we don’t have much of any to lose. It is the power hungry Rovebots that should be shaking in their boots now. They’ve built up billions in profit and unlimited executive powers, which can and will be redistributed. 15. Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.Barack Obama will be the next president because was against the war from the start. In the beggining, the country was torn and misled on the issue. Now, McCain’s only defense is to cut the war down to sound-bites of “the surge”, but it’s an extremely thin tight rope to walk. Because the moment McCain starts talking about the war in its entirety, he’s already lost. The majority of the country is now against the war, with all its consequences at home and abroad, AND the fact that we’ve been purposely misled by our government. 16. The consummate leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in his power to control success.What we’ve done as a nation to the innocent civilians in Iraq (and other wars) is wrong and amoral. Right-wingers say we have to occupy Iraq in order to protect ourselves from terrorists. Then, how come they won’t bring any detainees to real court and charge them with a crime? McCain of all people, who was a prisoner of war, should be totally against holding so-called enemies indefinitely, without Habeas Corpus or international law. Yet, he doesn’t speak out against any of the failed policies or adverse results of this war, as if it were the right thing to do. 17. In respect of military method, we have, firstly, Measurement; secondly, Estimation of quantity; thirdly, Calculation; fourthly, Balancing of chances; fifthly, Victory.Another desperate attack on Obama claims he didn’t support the troops by funding their mission. But, what they won’t say is that we don’t have the money to continue this war, even if we wanted to. California’s Gov. Schwarzenegger is laying off state employees against their will right now. I just got my raise as a Wisconsin state employee, delayed since last summer, after a history making state budget crisis. Even worse, people who suffered flood damage this past June are being offered peanuts for federal funds, because the money simply isn’t there. This whole war has been miscalculating all the numbers at every turn, and if we elect McCain president, we will keep hearing about the outrageous 100’s of billions of dollars being requested in order continue it. 18. Measurement owes its existence to Earth; Estimation of quantity to Measurement; Calculation to Estimation of quantity; Balancing of chances to Calculation; and Victory to Balancing of chances.Climate change on the Earth is a terrorists dream come true, because the natural disasters that come from climate change can attack with little or no warning, and cannot be blamed on the terrorists who wish to see such destruction. Bush went to war for oil, with Cheney and Condoleezza and all the oil barrens, despite the fact that Mother Earth demands that we find better, cleaner sources of energy and industry. Bush (and friends) will not only be measured by their failed war in Iraq, but by the failure to aid or protect New Orleans, or effectively deal with any of the numerous natural disasters that have occurred under his watch. Even the most hard-core war and/or Bush supporters are beginning to calculate and estimate the extent of the damages. But are they willing to balance the chances of victory, and stop using underhanded tactics to damage Obama and the Democrats? 19. A victorious army opposed to a routed one, is as a pound's weight placed in the scale against a single grain.Support for Bush has waned considerably, and McCain has always had many weak points within his own party. We must exploit McCain’s (Bush’s) weakness from within his own party, so that even his own team is criticizing him, or at least slow to defend him. We democrats have the numbers and the moral authority on our side. 20. The onrush of a conquering force is like the bursting of pent-up waters into a chasm a thousand fathoms deep.So, if you are liberal, and you’ve suffered long and hard under Bush, then go ahead be angry, be aggressive, even offensive…with McCain! But, please, don’t blame Obama, or do the Republicans any favors, okay? Thanks, Nellieyah

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 3 of 13

Nellieyah — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 01:28:06 EDT

III. ATTACK BY STRATAGEM 1. Sun Tzu said: In the practical art of war, the best thing of all is to take the enemy's country whole and intact; to shatter and destroy it is not so good. So, too, it is better to recapture an army entire than to destroy it, to capture a regiment, a detachment or a company entire than to destroy them.The war in Iraq has blasted to pieces what was already busted up from years under sanctions since the Gulf War, among others. Priceless artifacts, museums, universities, and relics have been destroyed. Imagine being an Iraqi student post US occupation, where not only are there no intact schools and universities, all of which are desperately in need of qualified teachers, professors and resources, but there may not even be running water or electricity. Even worse, our military is using depleted uranium weaponry that could cause cancer and birth defects for generations to come. Supposedly “the surge” brought about the relatively less atrocious conditions of Iraq today…But, we don’t even speak their language. So, it’s hard to know why Iraqis who were once loyal to Saddam are now working along side US troops, and if they are not actually wolves in sheep’s clothing. 2. Hence to fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting.According to McCain (Bush), we must “fight and conquer in all battles” with terrorists and/or insurgents, and anything less is “surrender”. Diplomacy was never an option, and even today when Maliki says he agrees with Obama’s phased redeployment of American troops, it’s just not something Bush (McCain) are willing to talk about in detail. Their argument is "we stay until we win the peace and a stable Iraqi government". But, last I checked, crime in America is ever present, apparently growing in nice little cities like my hometown of Madison, Wisconsin, AND our own government is anything but stable. There were protesters at W’s inauguration, and there will be celebrations (and maybe sewage systems in his name) when he FINALLY leaves office. These facts are not indicative of a healthy, functioning representative democracy. 3. Thus the highest form of generalship is to balk the enemy's plans; the next best is to prevent the junction of the enemy's forces; the next in order is to attack the enemy's army in the field; and the worst policy of all is to besiege walled cities.The neo-cons say that Iran only wants a nuclear weapon, and cannot be trusted to have non-militant nuclear power (like many other nations in the world). But, long before any intelligence agency or officials have confirmed any weapons sites or labs, or materials, or experts, the Bush administration began preparing for another preemptive war with Iran. What little intelligence there is sets Iran’s nuclear weapons capability into the distant future. Meanwhile, McCain has been labeling Obama as being against nuclear power, highlighting the potential benefits of this non-fossil fuel. He also claims to be tough and experienced against “bad guys” and terrorists. But, what if Iran really does want or need nuclear powered energy for its citizens? What if Iran is willing to allow the international community to inspect its nuclear power program? McCain will be unable to negotiate the issue, because he’s too much in a hurry to “besiege walled cities” instead. Still, the fact of the matter is that Iranians are people too. And, just like the majority of Americans disagree with our current leader, George Bush, it is totally possible that many, maybe even a majority of Iranians disagree with their leader too. Also, just like it was wrong for the 9/11 terrorists to attack innocent civilians because of the policies and practices of the super rich and powerful of our nation, it would be wrong for us to “bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran”, killing innocent civilians, simply because we disagree with their leaders and their government policies. 4. The rule is, not to besiege walled cities if it can possibly be avoided. The preparation of mantlets, movable shelters, and various implements of war, will take up three whole months; and the piling up of mounds over against the walls will take three months more.Whatever happened to “Mission Accomplished” like 3 weeks into the war? When after 3 months we’d seen the looting, the lack of electricity or humanitarian services, and the general chaos that ensued, what happened? When after 3 years many lives were lost, and sectarian violence starting becoming civil war, and refugees were fleeing the only home they’d known since ancient times, what in the hell happened? Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, Wolfowitz, Gonzales, and Rove happened, that’s what. Do YOU want some McCain?5. The general, unable to control his irritation, will launch his men to the assault like swarming ants, with the result that one-third of his men are slain, while the town still remains untaken. Such are the disastrous effects of a siege.While McCain is criticizing Obama for “not visiting the wounded troops”, he himself is supporting a war and a president who have allowed so many brave soldiers to die for a lost cause. They have denied troops decent GI benefits. They have forced people into tour of duty after tour of duty, AND added stop losses to keep people even longer while there. They have denied the public real media coverage of life in Iraq for troops and for Iraqis, to the point of not even showing flag draped caskets in honor of the fallen soldiers. Now, even the Iraqi government is telling us to leave THEIR land.6. Therefore the skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field.I hope that when Obama is elected president, he can get to the heart of the problems that cause terrorists to want to be terrorists in the first place. Through skillful negotiation, or what he has been calling “big carrots and big sticks” we can prevent another terrorist attack far better than starting another preemptive war in the Middle East. 7. With his forces intact he will dispute the mastery of the Empire, and thus, without losing a man, his triumph will be complete. This is the method of attacking by stratagem.Here, stratagem is just another word for intelligence. If the Congress and the American people had of been well educated, this war could not have happened. Through media spin, and Bush propaganda, we’ve managed to kill tens, maybe hundreds of thousands, while forcing millions to become refugees, all while NOT catching Osama bin Laden, or bringing any of the 9/11 attackers to light. Thanks to the Military Commissions Act of 2006, Guantanamo Bay prisoners and other so-called terrorist detainees don’t even have a right to Habeas Corpus, i.e. acknowledgement of the reason, charges, or accusations as to why they were imprisoned. Still, most hindering to our intelligence gathering efforts is the fact that we don’t speak their language, nor do we have the translators we need. In all these years of the war, hundreds, maybe thousands of translators and troops with translator capacities could’ve been taught the language. But, communicating with the enemy was never a part of the stratagem, destroying the enemy was the only goal. Thus, Bush’s war was always doomed for failure, because we cannot even define the enemy, let alone destroy them. Besides, America was built on building, not destroying. 8. It is the rule in war, if our forces are ten to the enemy's one, to surround him; if five to one, to attack him; if twice as numerous, to divide our army into two.The enemy in yesterday’s Iraq, may very well be today’s Iraqi police officer being trained by American troops. The enemy may be a so-called “insurgent”, who rises up against the occupation (something any gun-totin’ ‘merican would do if a foreign army invaded our homeland). It could be an Al-Qaeda member from outside of Iraq or a homegrown Iraqi terrorist. We don't know.9. If equally matched, we can offer battle; if slightly inferior in numbers, we can avoid the enemy; if quite unequal in every way, we can flee from him.History will view this war as “America the greedy bully” attacking an undefined, and therefore everlasting enemy. 10. Hence, though an obstinate fight may be made by a small force, in the end it must be captured by the larger force.Even though we have always gloated in our military might and domination in the world, there is something even greater. Past empires like the Egyptian and Roman empires eventually fell, despite their great wealth, power, and military domination because it is human nature to aspire to self-determination and liberty. This election year, the American people, who have always outnumbered their government officials will finally capture the smaller force, and take back their country in what I think should be called Operation American Freedom. I, Nellieyah, do hereby promise to greet any Obama campaigner or supporter as liberators. 11. Now the general is the bulwark of the State; if the bulwark is complete at all points; the State will be strong; if the bulwark is defective, the State will be weak.Everybody knows that Bush and Cheney and the gang are all cowards on the inside, bullies on the outside. Now, if only the media would tell the truth about McCain…12. There are three ways in which a ruler can bring misfortune upon his army:--13. (1) By commanding the army to advance or to retreat, being ignorant of the fact that it cannot obey. This is called hobbling the army.Umm, Hhhmm, our army IS stretched thin, and “hobbling” along as best they can.14. (2) By attempting to govern an army in the same way as he administers a kingdom, being ignorant of the conditions which obtain in an army. This causes restlessness in the soldier's minds.The stop losses that keep our troops from going home or staying home are not much different than a feudal lord telling a serf or indentured servant that they will receive meager pay or rewards, in return for their unconditional physical labor and possibly for their life itself. 15. (3) By employing the officers of his army without discrimination, through ignorance of the military principle of adaptation to circumstances. This shakes the confidence of the soldiers.Bush is infamous for placing his buddies in high places, regardless of their qualifications for the job. Many neo-cons are guilty of this. 16. But when the army is restless and distrustful, trouble is sure to come from the other feudal princes. This is simply bringing anarchy into the army, and flinging victory away.Few people, especially my age, know about how Vietnam soldiers and veterans helped to bring the war to an end from the inside. How they had underground publications and networks, as well a played major roles in public protests. We don’t talk about the shootings at Kent State or the bombings at UW Madison, or the dissent and protest from the grassroots so much anymore…unless it can somehow be blamed on or associated with Obama. That's why the troops were so happy to see Obama on his recent trip, because outright dissent against the war, Bush, the neo-cons, or McCain is too dangerous now. So, they show their restlessness and troubles in their enthusiasm for change. 17. Thus we may know that there are five essentials for victory: (1) He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.Preemptive wars ought to be against international law, if it isn’t already. (2) He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces.Bush has stretched a mighty army, the greatest in the world, to the point of weakness. (3) He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all its ranks.Our army has been forced to work an unworkable mission, without a map or a plan, without the armor it needs, without rest or the ability to go home, without the moral standing of the rule of law, AND with hypocritical “support the troops” egos, with torture and arbitrary imprisonment, with contractors earning way more in order to do way less, and with an ignorant public left vulnerable to attack and natural disaster back home. (4) He will win who, prepared himself, waits to take the enemy unprepared.We were never properly prepared for war. We were rushed in order to maintain the ignorance. (5) He will win who has military capacity and is not interfered with by the sovereign.Iraqis want us out of their country so that they can go back to their sovereignty, only this time, without Sadddam. 18. Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.It is clear that McCain (Bush) intends to gain (hold onto) power through military might alone. But, I would love to hear from either of them, or better yet from the Iraqis, the Afghanis, and their neighbors, what good, if any has come from this war? If no tangible good, no universally agreed upon good has come from this, it means incredible losses on every front. We must vote for Barack Obama in order to guarantee victory.

The Art of War by Sun Tzu with Commentary - Chapter 2 of 13

Nellieyah — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 02:21:14 EDT

II. WAGING WAR1. Sun Tzu said: In the operations of war, where there are in the field a thousand swift chariots, as many heavy chariots, and a hundred thousand mail-clad soldiers, with provisions enough to carry them a thousand li, the expenditure at home and at the front, including entertainment of guests, small items such as glue and paint, and sums spent on chariots and armor, will reach the total of a thousand ounces of silver per day. Such is the cost of raising an army of 100,000 men.According to Sun Tzu, if you’re going to have a war, be sure you have enough troops, supplies, and money to pay for it. Right now, Barack Obama is touring Afghanistan, were troops are desperately needed to fight the Taliban and Al Qaeda, aka the real war on terror. McCain, the neo-cons, and the media are all out to make Obama look like a novice who’s “trying to build up foreign policy credentials”, when it’s really them who have been reluctant to admit that Bush’s foreign policy is that of endless occupation in Iraq, where there were too few troops to begin with, where soldiers are still funding their own armor or going without, and where both our nation and Iraq is being bankrupted for no good reason. 2. When you engage in actual fighting, if victory is long in coming, then men's weapons will grow dull and their ardor will be damped. If you lay siege to a town, you will exhaust your strength.What armor and strength our troops do have to fight with is truly dulling down, and in need of repairs and replacements. But, according to Bush/McCain, we must ignore these harsh realities, and fight on for a victory that is at best “long in coming” if not impossible to achieve. Even worse, climate change has brought us unprecedented natural disasters, like the recent floods of the Mid-West, but there are so few national guard troops, and equipment here at home, that citizens are forced to volunteer to rescue themselves, with makeshift protective measures like sandbags. 3. Again, if the campaign is protracted, the resources of the State will not be equal to the strain. The economy is way passed a recession, it is in a depression. Recently, McCain’s campaign co-chair, Phil Gramm, just resigned for his comments that the American people complaining about the depressing state of our economy are just a bunch of “whiners”. Republicans want to pretend that either everything is okay, or else we the people are the problem. Because to admit that we are in a recession or worse is to acknowledge the detrimental affects that the war has had on our resources as a nation. 4. Now, when your weapons are dulled, your ardor damped, your strength exhausted and your treasure spent, other chieftains will spring up to take advantage of your extremity. Then no man, however wise, will be able to avert the consequences that must ensue.Today, I caught a bit of the evening news, and there are reports of Iran’s growing influence in Iraq. I also heard on progressive talk radio that Iraq’s near-future oil policy will most likely favor the United Arab Eremites or other regional entities over the United States and Europe. 5. Thus, though we have heard of stupid haste in war, cleverness has never been seen associated with long delays.Now, McCain’s main argument for why Obama cannot be Commander in Chief, is because “he opposed the surge” which has supposedly succeeded. But, McCain has no plan, or even consideration for the redeployment of our troops. He is perfectly okay with us building many permanent military bases, the biggest American Embassy in the world, and a “home away from home” for generations to come. If you thought Bush was far from clever, you thought right, and McCain’s actually worse in some ways! 6. There is no instance of a country having benefited from prolonged warfare.McCain loves to use the military bases in Korea and around the world as grounds for staying in Iraq forever. But he’s dead wrong, mainly for two reasons;1)Those military bases are now in peace time, something troops in Iraq and the Middle East will never know, because of religious fundamentalism on our part and on theirs. and 2)The military-industrial complex in itself is exactly what the people are so desperate to change this election year and this generation.7. It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.McCain’s whole life has been totally wrapped up in the military-industrial complex. He must not know of any other way in which to earn a living, and so he is narcissistically assuming that we all see how profitable war can be. The problem is that my generation is of the “information age”, and I gladly reserve the right to wonder if McCain isn’t some kind of Manchurian Candidate, due to the lack of information on the subject. All I know is that he was a POW in communist Vietnam, yet he doesn’t clearly stand against communist China, with all its human rights violations. Even with the 2008 Beijing Olympics being prevalent, he won’t talk about China policy, trade deficits, or human rights. To me, the fact that information is totally censored in China, and American companies are okay with it, so long as it’s still profitable, is just unconscionable. 8. The skillful soldier does not raise a second levy, neither are his supply-wagons loaded more than twice.How many times has the Bush administration asked Congress for war appropriations? How many billions of dollars went to an endless occupation that only creates new enemies could’ve gone to good education, good jobs, good homes, and good in general here on the home front, not to mention homeland security, and FEMA?9. Bring war material with you from home, but forage on the enemy. Thus the army will have food enough for its needs.Supposedly, Bush’s plan was to use the money from Iraq’s oil to fund the war. But, without a stable Iraqi government, chosen without American interference by the Iraqi people, there can be no peace and prosperity. So, while we Americans keep going further into debt trying to control a puppet government and occupy a country, even the puppet government is telling us to go home. 10. Poverty of the State exchequer causes an army to be maintained by contributions from a distance. Contributing to maintain an army at a distance causes the people to be impoverished.It’s getting so bad here at home, that schools are cutting back drastically, or offering 4 days a week instead of five. Buses and mass transit cannot afford to run. Truckers are on strike. States, and everything in them, cannot afford to balance their budgets. Huge banks and business are looking for huge government bailouts. Airlines are either bankrupt, are charging outrageous fees just to keep operating. Families cannot afford to feed themselves. Retailers are struggling. Even our men and women in service are coming home to a dearth of opportunities, should they have the great good fortune to come home long enough to actually look for some. 11. On the other hand, the proximity of an army causes prices to go up; and high prices cause the people's substance to be drained away. Could our war in the Middle East have anything to do with these high gas prices?12. When their substance is drained away, the peasantry will be afflicted by heavy exactions.Thus, new generations of terrorists are born.13,14. With this loss of substance and exhaustion of strength, the homes of the people will be stripped bare, and three-tenths of their income will be dissipated; while government expenses for broken chariots, worn-out horses, breast-plates and helmets, bows and arrows, spears and shields, protective mantles, draught-oxen and heavy wagons, will amount to four-tenths of its total revenue.How dare we charge the unborn a birth tax! Imagine being born in 2012, regardless of whether or not the war has actually, ended or not. Such a child could hardly be called American as we know it, if we should become a 3rd world nation, were dollars are dangerous and other currencies hold more value.15. Hence a wise general makes a point of foraging on the enemy. One cartload of the enemy's provisions is equivalent to twenty of one's own, and likewise a single picul of his provender is equivalent to twenty from one's own store.Not only have we not been able to pay for the war with Iraq’s oil, but the price of oil is off the charts, and climbing, AND people in Iraq still don’t have basic infrastructure like clean water or electricity, AND we’ve bombed the hell out of priceless history, AND we’ve killed a bunch of people, AND forced millions to become refugees, AND God only knows how many more terrorists!16. Now in order to kill the enemy, our men must be roused to anger; that there may be advantage from defeating the enemy, they must have their rewards.This whole war was based on lies and fear mongering, as well as the natural fear and anger that resulted from 9/11. Who the enemy was then, and is now, is just as confusing for the average American today, as it was September 10th, 2001. Even John McCain can’t keep it clear on the difference between Sunni and Shia.17. Therefore in chariot fighting, when ten or more chariots have been taken, those should be rewarded who took the first. Our own flags should be substituted for those of the enemy, and the chariots mingled and used in conjunction with ours. The captured soldiers should be kindly treated and kept.One of Bush’s biggest mistakes in this war was to overthrow Saddam, and then refuse to work with his followers. The surge and this current Iraq strategy has probably trained and armed many disgruntled former Saddam loyalists, who will remember that after the statues came down, and the images were defaced, and American flags and soldiers were put in their place, we screwed them over. Now, we want them to take over and do all the dirty work, policing, and fighting. 18. This is called, using the conquered foe to augment one's own strength.The truth is that while McCain criticizes Obama for not supporting the surge, he can only do so by pretending like our enemies have magically become our friends. The biggest incentive an Iraqi has to help US troops is that it may speed up the end of the war, and the end of our occupying their country.19. In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns.The crazies who still support this war do so under the guise of being too tough to “surrender” or fail to achieve “victory”. But, since the war required lies to get us into it, it has required lied to keep us in it. The truth is there is no such thing as victory, because Iraq was not responsible for 9/11, Saddam and his sons are all dead, and the Iraqis refuse to let us simply make off with their oil. So, not only does “victory” not exist, but the neo-cons don’t really want it to anyways. They actually want a lengthy campaign instead, because it’s so profitable for their military-industrial complex. 20. Thus it may be known that the leader of armies is the arbiter of the people's fate, the man on whom it depends whether the nation shall be in peace or in peril.Only Barack Obama can lead us to peace. John McCain is a war-monger, who has no intentions to leave Iraq, AND who will start a war with Iran if elected. Obama knew that this war was wrong before it even started. Just like he was right to judge that the surge would not bring victory, but more deaths, and more debt. Now that he is in the region, he can come back to the states and say so with empirical EXPERIENCE that will be hard to deny.